BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MINOLE Cour vonpis Sonu G July 25, 2023 ‘The Honorable Michael S. Regan Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20460 Dear Administrator Regan: On behalf of the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners, I'd like to express our deep concern regarding the unregulated nature of 1,4-dioxane in our drinking water supply and urge the Environmental Protection Agency to establish nationally standardized regulations to address this significant issue Seminole County, Florida, is located 20 miles north of downtown Orlando and is home to nearly half a million residents who should feel confident in the safety of their drinking water. Our Board is committed to safeguarding our natural treasures, including nearly 75,000 acres of protected land, 16 watersheds, and the Wekiva River, an Outstanding Florida Water. Our commitment extends to ensuring the availability of clean and safe drinking water. ‘As an EPA contaminant of concern, 1,4-dioxane is a pervasive chemical that can infiltrate water sources through industrial discharge, landfill leaching, and disposal of certain household products. When ingested over a significant period at high levels, 1,4-dioxane in drinking water poses a serious threat to public health and necessitates immediate action to safeguard our community and future generations. Unfortunately, the absence of standardized regulations for this element in drinking water leaves our communities vulnerable to its harmful effects. While the EPA has suggested a Health Advisory Level of 0.35 parts per billion, one of the lowest Health Advisory Levels nationwide, which the State of Florida has adopted, this guidance is non-binding, It lacks the enforceability necessary to protect our residents effectively. Considering this, our Board respectfully requests that the EPA consider the following actions: © Establish a Maximum Contaminant Level for 1,4-dioxane in drinking water that is enforced nationwide; * Collaborate with state and local agencies to develop effective monitoring, compliance, and remediation strategies; Allocate additional resources towards comprehensive research and risk assessment studies to further understand the potential health impacts of 1,4-dioxane. 1101 EAST FIRST STREET + SANFORD FL 32771-1468 * TELEPHONE (407) 665-7219 + FAX (407) 665-7958 WWW/SEMINOLECOUNTYFLGOVBy taking immediate, decisive action to regulate 1,4-dioxane in drinking water, the EPA can demonstrate its commitment to public health and the environment. The people of Seminole County and countless communities nationwide rely on your expertise; your proactive steps will ensure our residents’ well-being and contribute to a healthier and safer future for all Americans. Thank you for your attention to this critical national concern. Seminole County remains eager to collaborate with the EPA and support the implementation of these crucial regulations. Sincerely, /) Amy Lockhart Chairman, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners