public water systems (PWSs)

Clean Water is Essential

The current crisis caused by the novel coronavirus and resulting COVID-19 pandemic has reminded us all how much we rely on essential service workers. Perhaps one of the most invisible but undeniably essential group of workers includes the individuals making sure our faucets are flowing with clean water and our waste is getting properly treated when we brush or flush.

Updated Sample Receiving and Sample Collection Policy in Response to COVID-19

Babcock Laboratories’ testing services are essential to continuing to protect public health during this unprecedented time. We have never wavered from our commitment to safeguarding our community, and as such the safety of our clients and our dedicated employee-owners is of the utmost importance. To continue critical testing operations while ensuring the safety of our clients and staff, we have implemented new protocol in response to COVID-19.

Water News: PPIC Policy Update

A milestone law to address the state’s drinking water challenges, which was signed by Governor Newsom earlier this year, established a $1.3 billion Safe and Affordable Drinking Water Fund. In line with its broader policy focus on climate resilience, the administration is also creating a Water Resilience Portfolio Initiative, a collaborative effort by various state agencies to ensure water resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Does CA Really Deserve a C+ for Lead Testing in Schools?

Lead testing was in the mainstream news yet again this month after a report gave California a “C+” for its policies to protect children from lead in drinking water at school. In fairness to California, it was one of the only states to receive a “passing” grade, as 22 of the 32 states analyzed received an “F” letter grade. If you’re a parent like me, however, you probably feel like a C+ report card is hardly worth celebrating.

But what exactly did the report base its assessment on?

Who Suffers from a Shutdown?

Who suffers from a shutdown? Our businesses and economy certainly suffer, putting strain on the average American’s earnings. But a shutdown doesn’t just harm our pockets—it harms our health and communities.

Regulatory Update: New Guidelines for PFOA & PFOS

The State Water Resources Control Board has established new drinking water guidelines for local water agencies in regard to two Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) substances: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).