In what year was the Safe Drinking Water Act passed?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was passed in 1974 and marked a significant milestone in the federal government's efforts to ensure safe drinking water for the public. This landmark legislation set the foundation for establishing national drinking water standards and gave the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to oversee the quality of drinking water in the United States.

The SDWA requires the EPA to set maximum contaminant levels for various pollutants and to ensure that public water systems comply with these standards. This act was instrumental in protecting the health of millions by setting regulations and helping to prevent illnesses associated with waterborne contaminants. Understanding the timeline of water quality legislation is critical for water operators, as it informs their practices and responsibilities in maintaining safe water standards.

The other years listed correspond to amendments or updates to the original Act. However, the critical year when the SDWA was originally enacted is indeed 1974.