What does the Bioterrorism Act of 2002 require for public water systems?

The Bioterrorism Act of 2002 primarily emphasizes the need for enhanced security measures for public water systems. This legislation was enacted as a response to concerns about the possibility of bioterrorism and the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, including water supply systems. The Act requires water utilities to assess their risk and implement measures to secure their facilities against potential threats, which includes physical security enhancements, employee training, and improved monitoring systems.

While testing for contaminants, fines for pollution, and public access to water quality reports are indeed vital components of environmental health regulations, they are not specifically mandated by this Act. The focus on security measures is crucial because it aims to safeguard the drinking water supply from intentional contamination, ensuring public health and safety in the event of a terrorist attack.