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NTC STATEMENT BY ADMIN. BROWNER ON SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT

Release Date: 08/2/96
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NTC STATEMENT BY ADMIN. BROWNER ON SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT

FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 1996

EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner issued the following statement

after the vote on the reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

R-114


Statement by
U.S. EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner on
Safe Drinking Water Legislation

August 2, 1996

Today's action is a major step forward in ensuring safer drinking water for all Americans. A new, stronger Safe Drinking Water Act will mean greater protection for every American family each time they drink a glass of water. We have a bill based on Clinton Administration recommendations that strengthens health standards for drinking water, protects the rivers, lakes and streams that are the sources of drinking water, and provides the public with a right to know about contaminants in tap water.

However, I am disappointed that the Congressional leadership failed to meet the August 1 deadline that they set for themselves for making available 725 million dollars to local communities for upgrading drinking-water-supply systems. President Clinton since 1993 has called for both stronger protection of drinking water and a revolving loan fund to help American communities safeguard their drinking water.

I commend Congress for its good work, and urge Congress to act quickly to guarantee that these urgently needed funds be made available as soon as possible to help ensure the safety of the nation's drinking water.

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