Historic Legislation Proposed to Combat Water Pollution in 1939
A significant piece of legislation, H. Rept. 76-611, was proposed on May 10, 1939, outlining the creation of a Bureau of Water Pollution Control within the Public Health Service. This report, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed, marked a crucial step in the United States’ efforts to address the growing problem of water pollution.
At a time when industrialization and population growth were accelerating, the impact of untreated sewage and industrial waste on the nation’s waterways was becoming increasingly apparent. Rivers, lakes, and coastal waters were suffering from severe contamination, posing risks to public health, aquatic life, and recreational activities. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, lawmakers proposed the establishment of a dedicated federal bureau to spearhead efforts in water pollution control.
The proposed Bureau of Water Pollution Control was envisioned to play a central role in research, technical assistance, and the development of national policies to combat water pollution. Its mandate would likely have included:
- Conducting Scientific Research: Investigating the sources and effects of water pollution, as well as developing effective methods for its prevention and control.
- Providing Technical Guidance: Offering expertise and support to state and local governments in implementing their own water pollution control programs.
- Developing National Standards: Working towards establishing consistent standards for water quality across the nation.
- Promoting Public Awareness: Educating the public about the importance of clean water and the dangers of pollution.
The commitment of this report to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union signified its importance and the serious consideration it was receiving from the legislative branch. The subsequent order to be printed ensured that this vital proposal would be made widely available for review and discussion by all members of Congress, as well as the public.
While the full details of the debates and eventual outcome of this specific proposal are not immediately available from the provided summary, the introduction of H. Rept. 76-611 highlights a pivotal moment in American environmental policy. It underscores a growing awareness of the need for federal leadership in protecting the nation’s precious water resources, laying the groundwork for future advancements in water quality management and environmental protection. This early initiative reflects a proactive approach by the government to safeguard public health and preserve the natural environment for generations to come.
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govinfo.gov Congressional SerialSet published ‘H. Rept. 76-611 – Creating a Bureau of Water Pollution Control in the Public Health Service. May 10, 1939. — Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed’ at 2025-08-23 12:29. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.