Safe Drinking Water Act

What is the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)?

The Safe Drinking Water Act is a U.S. federal law that protects public drinking water supplies throughout the nation.

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What is the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)?

The Safe Drinking Water Act is a U.S. federal law that protects public drinking water supplies throughout the nation.

What year was the Safe Drinking Water Act enacted?

The Safe Drinking Water Act was enacted in 1974.

What are the main objectives of the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The main objectives of the SDWA are to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply and to ensure safe drinking water for all citizens.

Who is responsible for enforcing the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for enforcing the Safe Drinking Water Act.

What does the SDWA allow states to do?

The SDWA allows states to establish and implement their own drinking water standards, as long as they are at least as stringent as federal standards.

What is the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR)?

NPDWR are legally enforceable standards that apply to public water systems to protect drinking water quality under the SDWA.

What does the SDWA require concerning contaminants in drinking water?

The SDWA requires the EPA to set maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for specific contaminants in drinking water.

What is a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL)?

An MCL is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water, which is set to protect public health.

How often must the EPA review the drinking water standards under the SDWA?

The EPA must review the drinking water standards every six years.

What is the purpose of the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR)?

The CCR is designed to inform the public about the quality of their drinking water, including any contaminants detected.

What is the significance of the 1996 Amendments to the SDWA?

The 1996 Amendments provided new funding for drinking water infrastructure, increased the EPA's ability to regulate, and focused on public participation.

What is the role of public water systems under the SDWA?

Public water systems are required to monitor and test water quality, comply with safety standards, and report results to consumers.

What is the underground injection control program?

This program aims to prevent the contamination of underground sources of drinking water through regulatory controls on injection wells.

What actions can the EPA take if a public water system violates the SDWA?

The EPA can impose penalties, mandate corrective action, and in severe cases, issue orders to shut down the water system.

How does the SDWA support research and development?

The SDWA promotes research into water treatment technologies and methods to improve drinking water quality.