On Tuesday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it is developing a national action plan to correct drinking water problems around the country. The EPA will seek to strengthen implementation of Safe Drinking Water Act regulations, look for ways to incorporate its environmental justice goals in infrastructure funding, strengthen protections against lead in drinking water, and address unregulated contaminants like algae toxins. EPA expects the plan to be released by the end of the year.
Additionally, the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) is undertaking a study of the science and technology needed to prevent drinking water disasters like the current crisis in Flint, Michigan. The PCAST study will offer recommendations on how to use science and technology to protect drinking water.