Louisiana Contractors License Practice Exam

Which act established regulations for pollutant discharges into U.S. waters?

1. Clean Water Act

2. Clean Air Act

3. National Environmental Policy Act

4. National Historic Preservation Act

The correct answer is: Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act is the legislation that established regulations for pollutant discharges into U.S. waters. This act was initially passed in 1972 with the primary objective of restoring and maintaining the integrity of the nation's waters by preventing point and nonpoint source pollution. It provides the framework for regulating discharges of pollutants into navigable waters and sets standards for water quality. The Clean Water Act also ensures that both the federal and state governments have the authority to regulate water pollution, which includes establishing permit systems for those discharging pollutants and creating water quality standards that states must meet. This act is fundamental in promoting a healthy environment and protecting aquatic ecosystems. In contrast, the Clean Air Act focuses on regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources to improve air quality and protect public health, while the National Environmental Policy Act requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of their proposed actions before making decisions. The National Historic Preservation Act is concerned with preserving historical and archaeological sites rather than water pollution. Thus, the Clean Water Act specifically addresses the concern of pollutant discharges into waterways.