By: Erin Smith
Following the investigation into GenX contamination of the Cape Fear River and concerns regarding the suitability of drinking water taken from the river, two state agencies have made a joint request for additional funding from the General Assembly. Both the NC Department of Health and Human Services and the NC Department of Environmental Quality have presented a joint financial request to the NC General Assembly to be considered during the September session. The joint request is for monitoring of water quality, permitting and public health.
According to a release, the NC DHHS has asked for $530,839 for water and public health and Department of Environmental Quality has requested $2 million for water quality monitoring and permitting activities. The request also asks the General Assembly to review the Harrison amendment which prevents the state from enacting any restrictions which may be more stringent than federal regulations.
“North Carolina families deserve to have confidence in their drinking water. We have deployed our experts to address the immediate concerns in the Lower Cape Fear region, but because of cuts over the last few years, long-term solutions will take more resources than our department currently has. It is critical that we have the engineers and environmental specialists necessary to put science first to protect our water,” said DEQ Secretary Michael Regan.
Numerous budget cuts which have taken place since 2013 have led to reductions in staffing at the Department of Environmental Quality.
“This legislation would allow DHHS to create a Water Health and Safety Unit to enhance our understanding of unregulated compounds and protect families’ drinking water,” said DHHS Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen.
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