Which federal act addresses regulations concerning water pollution?

The Clean Water Act is the federal legislation primarily focused on regulating water pollution. Enacted in 1972, it aims to restore and maintain the integrity of the nation's waters by preventing point and nonpoint source pollution. The Act establishes the framework for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and sets quality standards for surface waters.

The Clean Water Act is significant because it empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce regulations, issue permits, and oversee the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which is crucial for managing water quality. This act has led to substantial improvements in the quality of rivers, lakes, and other waterways across the country.

In contrast, the other options address different aspects of water management: The Federal Water Quality Act refers broadly to the strength and improvement of water quality but is not the primary legislation; the Safe Drinking Water Act focuses specifically on ensuring safe drinking water quality; and the Water Use Act, while pertaining to water management, does not specifically address pollution regulations. The Clean Water Act remains the central and most comprehensive piece of legislation regarding water pollution control in the United States.