Schakowsky Statement on Introduction of Water CUPS Act

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after introducing the Water, Cosmetics, and Unwanted Pharmaceuticals (Water CUPS) Act(H.R. 6128) that examines the impacts of prescription drugs and cosmetics entering our water supply:

“Our drinking water is too important to take for granted. When people pour pharmaceuticals and personal care products down the drain, they may not realize they are contaminating the lakes, rivers, and other sources of drinking water,” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky. “I am introducing the Water CUPS Act (Water, Cosmetics and Unwanted Pharmaceuticals Study Act) to study the impact that these products have on our drinking water and develop recommendations to address these risks. The study in my bill would inform and improve local efforts - including efforts in the Chicago area - to promote water quality.”

“I applaud Representative Schakowsky for building on the efforts of jurisdictions across the nation working to improve drinking water quality,” said Debra Shore Commissioner, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. “We know that pharmaceuticals and personal care products end up in rivers, streams and groundwater when flushed or sent to landfills. The study mandated here will yield important information needed to craft effective policies, invest in cutting-edge technology, and expand access to safe disposal receptacles.”

Background Information on Water CUPS Act:

Water, Cosmetics, and Unwanted Pharmaceuticals (Water CUPS) Act

Frequently, prescription drugs and cosmetics go down the drain and into our water supply. But the current research on what this does to our water supply is limited. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified pharmaceuticals and personal care products as contaminants of emerging concern. These products may be toxic or affect hormone levels (endocrine disruptors). The Government Accountability Office has recommended federal research because we currently have little data on the presence and effects of these products. The Water CUPS Act would require this necessary research.

The Water CUPS Act will require the EPA within 4 years to:

· Identify the types and sources of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in drinking water sources

· Study the effects of these products on human health and the environment

· Determine methods to mitigate the risks pharmaceuticals and personal care products in drinking water sources

Local organizations like the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago are conducting education campaigns and providing safe disposal sites for unwanted pharmaceuticals. The study required by the Water CUPS Act would inform these efforts tocontrol, limit, treat, and prevent the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in our drinking water.

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