Ruling paves way for water plants to use chemical

December 2008

U.S. Water News Online

HARRISBURG, Pa. — A state court ruling leaves two Pennsylvania drinking water systems free to use a chemical disinfectant known as chloramine.

Commonwealth Court turned down a legal challenge to Pennsylvania American Water Co.'s use of the combination of chlorine and ammonia at water treatment facilities outside Harrisburg.

The ruling upheld a prior decision by the state's Environmental Hearing Board that had been challenged by Camp Hill attorney Susan Pickford.

She argued the chemical isn't safe and contended she didn't get adequate notice of the issuance of construction and operation permits.

Pickford says she wasn't surprised by the decision and doubts she'll appeal it.

A phone message for Pennsylvania American Water lawyer Michael Klein wasn't immediately returned.

Click here to subscribe to e-Water News Weekly!