Report on Strengthening Safe Drinking Water Standards in Illinois

Introduction

State Senator Karina Villa has led the enactment of a new law aimed at enhancing safe drinking water standards in Illinois. This legislative measure is designed to ensure that all residents have access to clean and safe water, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

Legislative Details and Implementation

The new law empowers the Illinois Department of Public Health to impose civil penalties on non-community water supplies that fail to meet established drinking water standards. It also clarifies the role of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the primary agency responsible for implementing the Safe Drinking Water Act, in accordance with federal regulations.

Scope and Impact

Non-community public water systems include facilities such as:

• Schools
• Factories
• Restaurants
• Resorts
• Churches

These facilities typically rely on their own water sources, often wells, which are now subject to stricter safety enforcement.

Significance in Relation to Sustainable Development Goals

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – The law directly supports the goal of ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by improving water quality and safety.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By securing safe drinking water, the legislation contributes to reducing waterborne diseases and promoting community health.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Enhancing water safety in public facilities supports the development of resilient and sustainable urban environments.

Official Statement and Legal Status

Senator Karina Villa emphasized the importance of the law, stating, “This law ensures every water source we rely on is safe.” The legislation, known as Senate Bill 2266, was signed into law on Monday and is effective immediately.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article focuses on ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water, which directly relates to SDG 6.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • By enforcing safe drinking water standards, the law aims to secure the health of communities, linking to SDG 3.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
   • The law empowers state agencies to enforce regulations and impose penalties, reflecting strong institutional governance under SDG 16.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 6 Targets
   • 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
   • 6.a: Expand international cooperation and capacity-building support to developing countries in water and sanitation-related activities.
2. SDG 3 Targets
   • 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
3. SDG 16 Targets
   • 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. Indicators for SDG 6
   • Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services (Indicator 6.1.1) – implied by the enforcement of safe drinking water standards.
   • Compliance rate of water supplies with national drinking water standards – implied through the imposition of civil penalties for violations.
2. Indicators for SDG 3
   • Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation, and lack of hygiene (Indicator 3.9.1) – indirectly addressed by securing safe water to reduce health risks.
3. Indicators for SDG 16
   • Proportion of the population who believe decision-making is inclusive and responsive (Indicator 16.7.2) – implied through strengthened institutional enforcement.
   • Number of verified cases of corruption and enforcement actions taken (related to Indicator 16.6.2) – implied by the authority to impose civil penalties.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: illinoissenatedemocrats.com