The Florida Senate

403.855  Imminent hazards.--In coordination with the Department of Health, the department, upon receipt of information that a contaminant which is present in, or is likely to enter, public or private water supplies may present an imminent and substantial danger to the public health, may take such actions as it may deem necessary in order to protect the public health. Department actions shall include, but are not limited to:

(1)  Adopting emergency rules pursuant to s. 120.54(4).

(2)  Issuing such corrective orders as may be necessary to protect the health of persons who are or may be users of such supplies, including travelers. An order issued by the department under this section shall become effective upon service of such order on the alleged violator, notwithstanding the provisions of s. 403.860(3).

(3)  Establishing a program designed to prevent contamination or to minimize the danger of contamination to potable water supplies.

(4)  Contracting for clinical tests on samples of the affected population if the department determines there is a real and immediate danger to the public health.

(5)  Commencing a civil action for appropriate relief, including a restraining order or permanent or temporary injunction.

History.--s. 6, ch. 77-337; s. 163, ch. 79-400; s. 5, ch. 83-310; s. 170, ch. 96-410; s. 166, ch. 99-8.