Department of Public Utilities celebrates 50 Years of the Safe Drinking Water Act

December 2024 marks the 50^th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) – a law that established national standards for the quality of drinking water and regulations for public water suppliers. This groundbreaking law has ensured public health and safety since it was passed on December 16, 1974. The law also increased emphasis on providing information about the quality of drinking water to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the public at large.

Over the past 50 years, the SDWA has made significant strides in guaranteeing access to safe, clean drinking water for millions of Americans. It has established water quality standards, reduced harmful contaminants and supported water systems of all sizes in delivering safe water to their communities.

The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities has worked to invest in advanced water treatment technologies, upgrade aging infrastructure, replace lead service lines, educate the public about water safety and surpass the quality standards of our drinking water. These efforts align with the spirit of the Safe Drinking Water Act and its mission to protect public health.

As we celebrate this milestone, DPU also celebrates our own successes in the water sector as well as our water professionals who work around the clock to keep Richmond’s water safe, clean and reliable. We also invite the community to reflect on the importance of safe drinking water and the role everyone plays in protecting this essential resource.

For more information about the Safe Drinking Water Act and our work in the community follow us on X and Facebook @RichmondDPU.

Click here to view the entire Safe Drinking Water Act Timeline.