What is the primary concern of the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The primary concern of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is protecting water quality. This federal legislation, enacted in 1974, aims to ensure that the nation's drinking water supply is safe and does not pose a risk to public health. To achieve this, the act establishes maximum contaminant levels for various pollutants and mandates regular testing and reporting by water suppliers. The overarching goal of the SDWA is to create standards that safeguard against harmful bacteria, chemicals, and other pollutants that can contaminate drinking water sources. This focus on maintaining high water quality is essential for the health and safety of communities across the United States.

While the other choices—ensuring water affordability, promoting water conservation, and regulating water rates—are important aspects of water management and policy, they are not the primary focus of the SDWA. The act specifically centers on the quality and safety of drinking water, making it vital for public health protection.