Which authority is typically responsible for cross-connection control oversight?

• A. Federal Environmental Protection Agency
• B. State and Local Health Authorities
• C. Department of Transportation
• D. Public Utility Commission

Answer: (B)

Cross-connection control is a public health function focused on preventing backflow from a customer's plumbing into the drinking water system. Because of this health protection role, the oversight is typically carried out by state and local health authorities. They establish backflow prevention requirements, approve and inspect backflow prevention assemblies, issue permits, and enforce testing and maintenance to keep the distribution system safe. The EPA sets federal drinking water standards, but actual cross-connection program oversight is usually led at the state or local health department level, often in coordination with the water utility. Departments like the Department of Transportation or a Public Utility Commission aren’t primarily responsible for this health-focused program.