The report, titled Protecting Drinking Water in the Great Lakes: A Primer on Existing State Policies and Using the Safe Drinking Water Act, was published by American Rivers. It was developed in partnership by American Rivers and the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center.
The report surveys how the 8 Great Lakes states are using state laws, regulations, and policies to address 10 key drinking issues impacting the region. The drinking water issues addressed are:
Maximum Contaminant Levels, Treatment Techniques, and Monitoring Standards
Lead as a Drinking Water Contaminant
Consumer Confidence Reporting
Loans and Grants
Public Participation in Standards, Permits, and Enforcement
Operator Certification
Management of Drinking Water Emergencies
Management of Algal Blooms and Their Consequences
Private Water Supplies: Well Construction and Protection from Pollution
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) and Drinking Water
The report will be a valuable tool for community activists, environmental organizations, and policymakers working on drinking water issues throughout the Great Lakes region. It will enable these stakeholders to quickly reference how each state is addressing important drinking water issues, and to brainstorm effective solutions for their own state.