EPA announces final rule to improve drinking water quality awareness

On May 15, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule to make annual drinking water quality reports more understandable and accessible to the public. The agency said the reports are an important tool that drinking water systems use to inform residents about water quality and any contaminants that have been found in the water.

Starting in 2027, this final rule will ensure that these reports are easier to read and support access to translations in appropriate languages while enhancing information about lead in drinking water. EPA said it is also taking steps to streamline the delivery of reports by encouraging electronic methods.