Which entity can assume primacy for implementing federal drinking water regulations at the state level?

• A. Governor
• B. State EPA
• C. Department of Natural Resources
• D. Public Health Department

Answer: (B)

Primacy for implementing federal drinking water regulations is earned through the Safe Drinking Water Act, when the EPA approves a state to run the program. Once granted primacy, the state’s environmental protection agency becomes the primary regulator responsible for enforcing, inspecting, sampling, and reporting on drinking water compliance within the state, while still operating under EPA standards and oversight. The Governor or other departments don’t take on the day-to-day regulatory enforcement; the designated State EPA handles the program, making it the best answer.