What is the purpose of the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was enacted to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. Its primary purpose is to ensure that safe drinking water standards are met, thereby minimizing the risk of waterborne diseases and contaminants that could pose health hazards to the population. The act mandates that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set and enforce various standards for drinking water quality, which include limits on specific contaminants and the requirement for regular testing of drinking water sources.

By focusing specifically on drinking water, the SDWA helps ensure that water systems deliver water that is safe for human consumption. It plays a critical role in public health protection and quality assurance, ultimately aiming to provide safe, clean drinking water to the public. Thus, the choice that identifies this purpose accurately encapsulates the essence of the Safe Drinking Water Act.