Water Quality Law

Yes, the quality of your water is regulated by government agencies. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for ensuring that the nation’s public drinking water supply meets specific standards. These water laws and regulations regulate contaminants and maintain the safety and cleanliness of water.

What Is the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is the main federal law that governs the quality of public drinking water. The EPA sets standards for drinking water quality and oversees the states, localities, and water suppliers that implement these standards. The Act outlines maximum contaminant levels for various pollutants and requires water suppliers to monitor and report water quality to the state.

What Duty Does the Water Company Have?

The water company has the responsibility to provide safe, clean water to its customers. Under the SDWA, water companies are required to test the water they supply regularly and meet the EPA’s standards for water quality. If they do not meet these standards, they are obligated to notify their customers.

What Is Pure and Wholesome Water?

Pure and wholesome water refers to water that is free from harmful levels of contaminants, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. The EPA’s standards for drinking water are designed to ensure that water is both clean (pure) and safe to drink (wholesome).

Harmful Contaminants in Water

• Bacteria and Viruses: E. coli, Salmonella, and Hepatitis A are examples of bacteria and viruses that can contaminate water. These can cause gastrointestinal illnesses, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even severe dehydration.
• Chemicals: This category can include pesticides, such as DDT and glyphosate, industrial pollutants like PCBs and dioxins, and heavy metals like lead and mercury. These chemicals can have various harmful effects on the body. For example, lead can cause brain damage, particularly in children, while long-term exposure to certain pesticides and industrial pollutants can increase the risk of cancer.
• Parasites: Examples include Giardia and Cryptosporidium, which can cause gastrointestinal illness, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.

EPA Standards for Clean and Wholesome Water

The EPA sets legal limits on the levels of certain contaminants in drinking water. These limits are known as Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) and Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).

• MCLGs are non-enforceable public health goals that define the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.
• MCLs are enforceable standards that are set as close to the MCLGs as possible, considering cost, benefits, and the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants.

For example, the MCLG for lead in drinking water is zero, reflecting the fact that there’s no safe level of exposure to lead. The MCL, the highest level of lead allowed in drinking water, is 15 parts per billion (ppb). If a water system tests above this limit, it must take action to reduce the lead levels.

The EPA also requires water suppliers to use treatment techniques to control contaminants. For instance, suppliers must disinfect water to kill bacteria and viruses, and they may need to adjust the pH of water to prevent the leaching of lead from pipes.

Through regular monitoring and reporting, the EPA ensures that water suppliers are maintaining water quality up to the prescribed standards. If a supplier fails to meet these standards, they are required to notify their customers, take steps to correct the problem, and in some cases, may face penalties.

Is Clean Water a Constitutional Right?

While there’s no specific right to clean water in the U.S. Constitution, several legal principles support the notion that people should have access to clean, safe water. Various laws, regulations, and court decisions also reinforce the importance of clean water to health and wellbeing.

What Can I Do If My Water is Impure?

If you believe your water is impure, you should contact your water supplier immediately. You can also report it to the state regulatory agency and the EPA. If necessary, you can seek the assistance of a legal professional to explore your options.

If you suspect that your water is impure, follow the steps outlined below.

Identification

Firstly, you need to identify any unusual characteristics in your water. Signs of impure water can include a strange taste, discoloration, or an unusual smell. More subtly, you might notice repeated minor health issues like digestive troubles or skin irritation that could be related to water quality. Sometimes, impurities can’t be detected by sight, smell, or taste, so if you suspect something might be off due to health issues, it could be worth investigating further.

Testing

If you observe any unusual signs, it would be best to have your water tested. Many companies offer home water testing kits, or you can hire a professional service for a more comprehensive examination. Some local health departments provide free or low-cost testing for certain contaminants. The EPA also recommends testing private wells yearly for specific contaminants, including total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels.

Contact Your Water Supplier

If the test shows that your water is contaminated, inform your water supplier. Your water supplier should be able to provide you with information about your water source and any recent testing results. The water supplier may conduct their own tests and take necessary action if the water supply is found to be at fault.

Reporting to State and EPA

If your water supplier doesn’t resolve the issue, or if you believe they’re the cause of the problem, you can report the issue to your state’s drinking water quality office and the EPA.

Legal Action

If reporting the issue doesn’t result in any changes, or if you have suffered harm due to contaminated water, you may consider consulting a lawyer to explore your legal options. Your legal options in this scenario could include things like filing a lawsuit against the responsible party for damages.

Remember, everyone has the right to safe, clean drinking water. If you suspect your water supply might be contaminated, it’s important to take action promptly to protect your health and the health of others in your household.

Can I Sue the Water Company?

If your water company has failed in its duty to provide safe, clean water and this has resulted in harm or property damage, you may be able to sue the company for damages. However, this can be a complex process and will depend on the specifics of your situation.

Should I Contact a Lawyer If I Think My Water is Impure?

Yes, if you believe your water is impure and it has caused harm to your health or property, it may be in your best interest to consult with a government lawyer. A lawyer can provide guidance, help you understand your rights and options, and represent your interests in any potential legal action.

If you’re searching for a government lawyer, consider using LegalMatch. They can help connect you with a professional who is suited to your specific needs. Remember, ensuring your water is safe is crucial for your health, so don’t hesitate to seek professional legal help if you suspect your water might be impure.