What regulatory body is responsible for setting Maximum Contaminant Levels?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the regulatory body responsible for establishing Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in drinking water. MCLs are legal thresholds set for the presence of contaminants in public water systems to safeguard public health. The EPA's role includes evaluating the health risks associated with contaminants, determining the levels that pose acceptable risks, and enforcing regulations that water suppliers must comply with to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water.

In contrast, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) focus on international health guidelines and standards but do not directly set regulatory levels for contaminants within the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily focuses on disease control and prevention rather than directly regulating environmental contaminants. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees food safety and some aspects of beverages but does not set drinking water standards. Thus, the EPA is the governing agency that specifically addresses MCLs in the context of public health and environmental safety.