When was the Safe Drinking Water Act adopted?

The Safe Drinking Water Act was adopted in 1974, making it a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at ensuring the safety of the public water supply in the United States. This act was established in response to growing concerns over water quality and public health risks associated with contaminated drinking water.

The act empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set national standards for drinking water to protect against both naturally occurring and man-made contaminants. It also provides for the enforcement of these standards through regulations, and offers funding for state and local water programs to improve and maintain safe drinking water systems.

The years presented in the question have specific historical significance, but 1974 is essential as it marked the formal legislative action to address drinking water issues nationwide. Subsequent amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act occurred in 1986 and 1996 to further expand its scope and enhance protections, but the foundational legislation itself was established in 1974.