What is the role of the U.S. EPA concerning drinking water contaminants?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a crucial role in establishing standards for drinking water quality to protect public health. Specifically, the EPA sets health-based standards for various contaminants that might be present in drinking water. This includes developing regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) that define acceptable limits for specific pollutants and requiring water systems to adhere to these standards to ensure safe drinking water for the public.

By setting these standards, the EPA helps to safeguard the health of individuals by reducing exposure to harmful substances in drinking water. This regulatory oversight is essential as it informs water suppliers and systems of what needs to be treated and monitored, ensuring that public health is a priority when accessing drinking water.

While the other options—monitoring water usage, determining pricing for services, and managing water supply maintenance—are all important aspects of water management, they do not fall under the direct purview of the EPA in relation to drinking water contaminants. Instead, those tasks are typically the responsibility of local and state water authorities or utility companies.