The Factors Shaping DPR Regulations in the United States

Abstract

Key Takeaways

• DPR regulations are being developed on a state-by-state basis in the U.S.
• Between states, there is significant variability in the individual requirements that make up the regulations
• Despite this variability, there is general consistency in the requirements for public health (i.e., pathogen and chemical control)
• The variability in DPR regulations is often influenced by non-public health factors including:
  • Scale of implementation: finding the appropriate balance between cost and conservatism in DPR requirements may be impacted by the scale at which DPR will be implemented
  • Environmental discharge: restrictions on discharge may impact the type of treatment required (reverse osmosis vs. carbon-based)
  • Statutory scope: states with greater statutory scope have more flexibility to include requirements for contaminants beyond those specified in the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act
  • Political climate: political support can influence whether regulations are developed, the speed of development, the funds available for research addressing knowledge gaps, and the resources available to develop, implement, and enforce the regulations