SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5199
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 20, 2009
Title: An act relating to public water supply system operators.
Brief Description: Modifying provisions regarding the operators of public water supply systems.
Sponsors: Senators Fraser, Morton, Rockefeller and Shin; by request of Department of Health.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Environment, Water & Energy: 1/27/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, WATER & ENERGY |
Staff: Karen Epps (786-7424)
Background: A Group A water system or a public water system using a surface or ground water supply under the direct influence of surface water are required to have a certified operator. The Department of Health (Department) oversees the operator certification process. The Department may revoke an operator's certificate for violations involving the portion of the public water system that stores, transmits, pumps, and distributes water to consumers or the public water system's treatment facilities.
Backflow assembly testers and cross-connection control specialists are currently regulated under the Department's general authority to protect public water systems. A backflow assembly tester inspects, tests, and monitors backflow assemblies that protect a public water system. A cross-connection control specialist develops and implements cross-connection control programs.
Summary of Bill: Backflow assembly testers and cross-connection control specialists must be certified by the Department. If the Department requires an examination as a prerequisite for the issuance of a certificate for a backflow assembly tester, a certified operator, or a cross-connection control specialist, the Department must offer the examination in both eastern and western Washington.
The Department may immediately revoke or suspend a certificate for fraud, deceit, or gross negligence involving the operation or maintenance of a public water system or in the testing or maintenance of devices intended to protect a public water system from contamination, if the certificate was obtained fraudulently, or if there is an intentional violation of the rules of the Department.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.