A new study published in the journal Risk Analysis highlights a troubling reality: the nation’s most severe drinking water violations are concentrated in just four states—West Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Oklahoma.
Topping the list is Wyoming County, West Virginia, whose public water utility had the highest number of violations in a single system. These violations include failures to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act—such as exceeding contaminant limits, neglecting required treatment protocols, and failing to monitor or inform the public.
The study found that around 2 million Americans still lack basic running water, with access issues clustering in specific areas. Meanwhile, 30 million more rely on water systems that violate safety standards, underscoring a widespread infrastructure and regulatory failure.
Researchers also explored the controversial question of water privatization—whether private companies can better manage and deliver safe drinking water compared to public systems. The findings were clear: privatization, on its own, is not a silver bullet.
By mapping system ownership and comparing compliance records, the study concluded that violations occur under both private and public management, and that deeper systemic issues—such as oversight, investment, and community access—must be addressed regardless of who owns the pipes.
“This high number is neither equally nor proportionally distributed across the population,” said lead author Alex Segrè Cohen of the University of Oregon. “Privatization alone is not a solution.”
The study calls for targeted policy reforms, improved regulatory enforcement, and infrastructure investment to protect public health—especially in underserved communities hit hardest by unsafe water.
