SPRINGFIELD – An initiative championed by State Senator Karina Villa that fortifies safe drinking water standards passed the Senate on Wednesday.

“Every water source we rely on should meet safe drinking water standards to secure the health of our communities,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Safe water is invaluable. Our water sources must be reliable.”

Senate Bill 2266 would allow the Illinois Department of Public Health to impose civil penalties against non-community water supplies that violate drinking water standards and clarifies that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is the primary agency responsible for implementing the Safe Drinking Water Act, consistent with federal law.

Non-community public water systems are facilities, such as schools, factories, restaurants, resorts and churches, served by their own water supply, which is usually a well. 

“Our residents deserve to know that, when they are out in the community, the water is safe,” said Villa. “Fortifying enforcement for safe drinking water standards is critical to ensuring that we maintain access to safe water.” 

Senate Bill 2266 passed the Senate on Wednesday.

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