Criminal Provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
On this page are general descriptions of the criminal provisions under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).
Tampering with Public Water Systems
Willful Violations of Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program
Tampering with Public Water Systems
Elements:
- A Person
- Tampers (with an intention to harm), attempts to tamper, or threatens to tamper with a public drinking water system
Statute: 42 U.S.C. 300i-1
Penalty:
- 20 years (10 if attempt or threat) and/or fines pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 3571
Relevant Regulations: 40 C.F.R. 141 - 143
Willful Violations of Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program
Elements:
- A person
- Willfully violates any requirement of an applicable underground injection control program, or an administrative order issued pursuant to this section [42 U.S.C. 300h-2]
Statute: 42 U.S.C. 300h-2(b)
Penalty:
- 3 years and/or fines pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 3571
Relevant Regulations: 40 C.F.R. 144 - 149