On September 16, AMWA offered comments to EPA during its listening session to help inform the development of a strategic plan for assessing and managing risks associated with algal toxins in drinking water. The strategic plan is being developed in response to the Drinking Water Protection Act (H.R. 212), which amends the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), which requires EPA to submit a strategic plan to Congress within 90 days of the bill’s becoming law on August 7, 2015.
AMWA’s statement emphasized that “within the plan, the process that is established for further evaluation – and reevaluation – of algal toxin risks is of vital importance to assuring optimal risk reduction” and “must include continuous, in-depth consultation with stakeholders to ensure that all necessary expertise and practical experience is brought to the table.” The statement also reiterated previous statements AMWA has made to EPA about the need to focus on source water protection (particularly from agricultural runoff), develop appropriate analytical methods and provide better guidance on risk communication challenges.