According to a recent news release, the EPA announced the final Consumer Confidence Report Rule Revisions to make annual drinking water quality reports more understandable and accessible to the public. The reports are an important tool that drinking water systems use to inform residents about water quality and any contaminants that have been found in the water.
Starting in 2027, the final rule will ensure that these reports are easier to read and support access to translations in appropriate languages while enhancing information about lead in drinking water. EPA is also taking steps to streamline the delivery of reports by encouraging electronic methods. See full information here: https://www.epa.gov/ccr/consumer-confidence-report-rule-revisions.
While there are several changes to the Rule, the final rule requires systems serving 10,000 or more persons to deliver the first report by July 1, of the previous year’s results, and then deliver a second report by December 31, which would capture a six-month update. If there were no violations then the original report can be re-sent, but if there have been violations, results for UCMR testing, or an action-level exceedance, then the system would have to report those findings in the six-month update.
The Association of Drinking Water Administrators has produced a summary of all rule changes: https://www.asdwa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ASDWA-CCR-Final-Rule-Summary.pdf.
EPA will be hosting two informational webinars. One intended for the general public, and the second intended for water system professionals and states. The two webinars will be similar in content, each intended for specific audiences.
Dates and times to be announced. Please contact [email protected] to be notified when registration is available.
Capital Strategic Solutions offers comprehensive communications support to water utilities. From creating Consumer Confidence Reports to developing and managing complete public outreach campaigns, our services include specialized communications in the areas of Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR) contaminants, including PFAS. Recognizing the complexities and concerns associated with these substances, our services include the operation of dedicated hotlines and the monitoring of emails, providing a direct channel for addressing consumer inquiries and concerns promptly.
Additionally, we specialize in crafting clear and informative social media posts and news releases, designed to educate the public about PFAS and related health implications. By ensuring consistent and accurate communication, Capital Strategic Solutions plays a crucial role in building trust between water utilities and the communities they serve, facilitating a transparent dialogue about water safety and the measures being taken to protect public health.
For more information about Capital Strategic Solutions water utilities support offerings, email us at [email protected].