Bill > A04694

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for defining and setting Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) for emerging contaminants in drinking water, with a focus on protecting public health. The bill defines an MCLG as the maximum level of a contaminant in drinking water that would not cause known or anticipated adverse health effects, providing a safety margin and serving as a non-enforceable health guideline. The New York State Commissioner of Health is authorized and required to establish MCLGs for each emerging contaminant, with specific guidelines for different types of contaminants: for microbial contaminants, the MCLG is set at zero; for carcinogenic chemical contaminants, the MCLG is set at zero if there is evidence of potential cancer risk with no safe dose, or at a safe level above zero if a safe dose can be determined; and for non-carcinogenic chemical contaminants, the MCLG is based on a reference dose that estimates the daily exposure level not expected to cause adverse health effects over a lifetime. The bill also requires the commissioner to consider the potential health risks to sensitive populations such as infants, children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems or chronic diseases. Additionally, the Public Health Council is tasked with reviewing emerging contaminants and recommending MCLGs alongside Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) based on scientific evidence and other relevant factors.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4694