You Don't Have a Right to Safe Drinking Water, US Court Rules

A federal appeals court ruled that the U.S. Constitution does not guarantee a right to safe drinking water, dismissing a lawsuit against Jackson, Mississippi for knowingly allowing residents to drink lead-contaminated water. The decision contrasts with at least nine U.S. states and numerous countries that have constitutionally protected access to clean water. Jackson, a majority-Black city with high poverty rates, has faced persistent water contamination issues for years, with officials allegedly concealing elevated lead levels from residents.