What does the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) establish?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) primarily establishes guidelines and regulations to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. One of the key components of the SDWA is the establishment of Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), which are legally enforceable standards set for specific contaminants in drinking water. These MCLs are designed to ensure that the drinking water supplied to consumers is safe and of high quality, thus minimizing risks to health.

The SDWA's focus on MCLs underscores the commitment to safeguarding public health through stringent water quality standards. This regulation covers a variety of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, minerals, and other harmful pollutants, which helps maintain the integrity of drinking water across various public sources.

While other options mention important regulations concerning environmental quality and water management, they do not pertain specifically to the SDWA's focus on drinking water safety. Ensuring that public drinking water meets these established standards is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases and promoting overall public health.