In which year was the Safe Drinking Water Act passed?

The Safe Drinking Water Act was passed in 1974, marking a significant step in the regulation and protection of public drinking water in the United States. This Act authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set national health-based standards for drinking water to ensure its safety for the public. The legislation was a response to growing concerns about the quality of drinking water and the health risks posed by contaminants. By establishing standards for water suppliers and mandating regular monitoring and reporting, the Act aimed to protect consumers from waterborne diseases and pollutants.

The years mentioned in the other options do not represent the correct timeline for the enactment of this important legislation. The 1980s and 1970s were significant in environmental regulation, but 1974 specifically focuses on the foundation of water safety legislation that paved the way for subsequent amendments and improvements to water quality standards in later years.