Clean Water Policy Timeline
Milestones in Federal Water Quality Laws and Regulations
1948 — After decades of failed attempts to address water pollution in the United States, Congress passes the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The Act encourages water pollution control by the States but does not grant regulatory authority to the Federal Government. 1956 — Congress amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to provide grants to States and localities for construction of wastewater treatment plants. The amendments also authorize the Federal Government to call a conference of Federal, State, and local authorities and polluters when serious water problems occur across State lines. 1961— Congress again amends the Act, this time…
