Which of the following is a key objective of the Safe Drinking Water Act?

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) primarily aims to ensure the safety of public drinking water supplies. A key objective of this legislation is to establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for various harmful substances in drinking water. These MCLs are legally enforceable standards that specify the highest allowable concentration of contaminants. This framework is crucial for protecting public health by ensuring that water utilities monitor and comply with these standards, thereby safeguarding consumers from potential health risks associated with contaminated water.

The monitoring of compliance with these established standards plays a critical role in maintaining safe drinking water. Water systems are required to regularly test for contaminants and report their findings, ensuring transparency and accountability. By focusing on monitoring compliance with maximum contaminant levels, the SDWA plays a pivotal role in establishing a safe and reliable drinking water supply for the public.