Declaration of policy; intent.

It is the policy of the state that the citizens of Florida shall be assured of the availability of safe drinking water. Recognizing that this policy encompasses both environmental and public health aspects, it is the intent of the Legislature to provide a water supply program operated jointly by the department, in a lead-agency role of primary responsibility for the program, and by the Department of Health and its units, including county health departments, in a supportive role with specific duties and responsibilities of its own. Without any relinquishment of Florida’s sovereign powers and responsibilities to provide for the public health, public safety, and public welfare of the people of Florida, the Legislature intends:

(1) To give effect to Pub. L. No. 93-523 promulgated under the commerce clause of the United States Constitution, to the extent that interstate commerce is directly affected.

(2) To encourage cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies, not only in their enforcement role, but also in their service and assistance roles to city and county elected bodies.

(3) To provide for safe drinking water at all times throughout the state, with due regard for economic factors and efficiency in government.