Dec. 16, 2014, marks the 40th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, which today includes regulations for more than 90 contaminants. American Water Works Association CEO David LaFrance issued the following statement to mark the occasion.
 
“As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the water community can take pride in the fact that U.S. tap water is among the world’s safest. Thanks in great part to the SDWA, Americans can drink from virtually any public tap with confidence, knowing the water is monitored daily and meets some of the world’s highest standards.

“But the success of the SDWA is due to more than words on paper. Its effectiveness is a result of the efforts of water professionals nationwide, who work every day, every hour – at all hours – to keep our water safe for drinking and our systems strong and reliable. Working collaboratively with federal and state regulators, public health professionals, and many other partners, water professionals take great pride in assuring the water they treat and deliver surpasses the high standards of the SDWA.
 
“As we recognize today’s anniversary, there’s also cause to reflect on the challenges ahead. The success of the next 40 years of the SDWA will require a renewed and sustained effort to protect our precious drinking water sources. It will require a relentless commitment to scientific process as we evaluate the next generation of water quality concerns and take steps to protect consumers.  And of course, it will require collaboration among all levels of government, water professionals, regulators, researchers, advocates and citizens, as we invest in the technologies and system upgrades necessary to keep tap water safe and reliable.
 
“But today, there is reason to pause and celebrate the achievements of the past 40 years. As we embark on the next 40 years of the SDWA, let’s renew our commitment to water, the world’s most important resource.”