What is the primary goal of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)?

The primary goal of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is to protect public health by ensuring that public water systems treat water to meet specific quality standards. These standards are put in place to minimize health risks associated with contaminants in drinking water. This involves not only monitoring the water for various pollutants but also mandating treatment processes that can effectively reduce or eliminate these contaminants.

The emphasis of the SDWA is on safeguarding against risks that could adversely affect drinking water quality and thereby protect the health of consumers. By requiring systems to meet stringent quality standards, the act aims to provide safe drinking water to communities, preventing diseases and health problems related to contaminated water supplies.