In what year was the SDWA signed into law?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was signed into law in 1974. This landmark legislation was enacted to protect public health by regulating the nation's public drinking water supply. It aimed to establish minimum standards for drinking water treatment and to ensure that water quality is maintained across different public sources.

The 1974 SDWA marked a significant milestone in the U.S. commitment to safeguarding drinking water, requiring states to comply with federal water quality standards. It also provided the framework for utilities and state regulators to monitor water quality and set limits on contaminants. The importance of this act is reflected in subsequent amendments, which continued to enhance protections and address emerging contaminants and public health concerns.

Looking at the other years listed, while the 1970s were indeed a time of environmental legislation, the specific establishment of the SDWA occurred in 1974, making it a key year in U.S. water quality regulation history.