My Decision On the Arsenic Rule

Monday, April 2, 2001

The March 21 front-page story about my decision to seek additional analysis before tightening standards for arsenic in drinking water gave the impression that the Environmental Protection Agency was not going to provide increased protection from arsenic in drinking water. That is not the case.

I have ordered further review of the science behind the new standard, as well as of the compliance cost estimates and the cost-benefit analysis that were made in support of it. That review will result in a new standard.

I reached this decision after being told by numerous parties that the decision to move the rule before the end of the Clinton administration precluded sufficient scientific and cost-benefit review. Because the new standard was not scheduled to take effect in most places until 2006, this review will not result in any delays in implementing a new standard based on solid, objective information.

The current standard for arsenic is too high and should be lowered. We will protect the safety of our drinking water. The only question is at what level do the data suggest we can most responsibly accomplish that goal.

CHRISTINE TODD WHITMAN
Administrator
Environmental Protection Agency