ANALYSIS OF SB 5105

House Agriculture & Ecology Committee                                                    April 1, 1999

The state definition for a public water system is made consistent with federal law.

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Health is responsible for administering a drinking water program consistent with the requirements of  the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.   The current state definition of a Apublic water system@ is inconsistent with the federal definition.  Under the state definition, a public water system means a system providing piped water for human consumption.  The federal law was recently amended to include water provided through other constructed conveyances for human consumption.  State laws implementing the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act are required to be at least as stringent as the federal law.

SUMMARY:

The definition of a public water system for purposes of regulation of drinking water is amended to be consistent with the definition used in the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.  A Apublic water system@ includes a system where water is provided for human consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances.

APPROPRIATION:  None.

FISCAL NOTE:  Not requested.

EFFECTIVE DATE: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.