The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today marked the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), a pivotal piece of legislation that established federal standards for drinking-water quality. This act, signed into law by President Gerald Ford in 1974, has been instrumental in ensuring clean and safe drinking water across America.

"For 50 years, EPA has worked with states, Tribes, and local partners to ensure that communities across the country can count on safe drinking water," said Bruno Pigott, Deputy Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Water. He emphasized that "the Safe Drinking Water Act provides a framework for developing collaborative solutions to address drinking water challenges of today and tomorrow."

The work remains vital as EPA continues efforts to safeguard water supplies. In October, the agency finalized improvements to the Lead and Copper Rule to replace toxic lead pipes delivering water to homes. Additionally, new standards were issued this year for PFAS chemicals, projected to protect nearly 100 million people from these contaminants.

Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Sen. Tom Carper remarked on past achievements: “Before the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, there was no comprehensive federal regulation protecting drinking water." He added that significant reforms have led to immense progress in ensuring access to safe drinking water.

Rep. Dan Kildee highlighted ongoing efforts: "I am proud of the work we have done together...to strengthen and set much-needed drinking water standards for lead and toxic PFAS chemicals in water." Rep. Debbie Dingell reiterated this commitment stating: "Today we recognize the progress made by the landmark Safe Drinking Water Act."

Reflecting on its impact over decades, a timeline notes that between 1961 and 1970 over 46,000 cases of diseases like hepatitis were linked to contaminated water—issues now addressed by SDWA regulations limiting contaminants.