ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Wednesday, August 7, 1996 TAG: 9608070037
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A4 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: WASHINGTON
A bill signed into law Tuesday will tell Americans what really is in the water they drink. It will significantly increase money available for repairing deteriorating water systems.
``I know that many of us take safe drinking water for granted,'' President Clinton said at an East Room signing ceremony. ``Unfortunately, it's not always so.''
For the first time, the law requires local water agencies to issue annual reports disclosing the chemicals and bacteria contained in water coming out of the tap. The information is to be written in simple language and sent directly to homes along with water utility bills.
Further, water agencies will be required to provide 24-hour public notification when a contaminant poses a significant risk.
The legislation was widely regarded as the most significant environmental measure enacted by the 104th Congress.
``Today, we help to ensure that every family in America will have safe, clean drinking water to drink every time they turn on a faucet or stop at a public water fountain,'' the president said. ``From now on, our water will be safer, and our country will be healthier for it.''
The new law provides communities with millions of additional dollars to protect drinking water.< - Associated Press
LENGTH: Short : 34 linesby CNB