Note that primacy agencies can designate additional triggers for public notice. Appendix B to Subpart Q contains specific health effects language to be used in public notices for each type of contaminant. In addition to adding Appendix B, EPA also revised Appendix A within Subpart O to make health effects language identical for both CCRs and violation-driven public notices. In addition to submitting copies of public notices to the primacy agency within 10 days of completing public notification requirements for a given violation, a water system must submit a brief certification stating that it has fully complied with public notification regulations. Each state that has primary enforcement authority under Part 142 must obtain EPA approval of their programs to implement Subpart Q public notification requirements.
States can choose to add to or change minimum notification requirements.
They may also modify the form and content of public notifications used within their states. Water systems located in areas under EPA s jurisdiction become subject to the revised federal regulations on October 31, 2000. State agencies with drinking water primacy are also affected by the rule since they must revise their public notification regulations to implement the new rule. The notifications provide information to help drinking water consumers understand risks associated with their drinking water and make informed choices about alternative sources of drinking water. The reorganized and revised regulations are much easier to understand.