SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5282

BYSenators Saling and Metcalf

Prohibiting introduction of chemicals into public water supply systems.

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 15, 1989

Senate Staff:Atsushi Kiuchi (786-7708)

AS OF FEBRUARY 10, 1989

BACKGROUND:

In order to protect public health, the state Board of Health establishes standards for drinking water quality.  The board uses the best available technical and scientific information in determining these standards.

Public drinking water supply systems are required to meet these standards and regulations.  The introduction of approved chemicals into the water supply is a decision made by the elective or appointed governing body of the water supply system.

SUMMARY:

Only chemicals to test or make water safe may be introduced into a public water supply system.  A majority of the voters of a municipal or quasi-municipal corporation must approve by ballot the addition of any chemical into their water system.

A private company or association operating a public water supply system may introduce chemical(s) into the water upon receipt of a petition favoring the use and signed by a majority of its users.

A water district's board of commissioners may place a proposition to fluoridate its water supply to its voters at a general or special election.

Water supply systems introducing chemicals in their systems on or before July 31, 1989 may continue this activity.  Those water supply systems that purchased water from systems that were introducing chemicals on or before July 31, 1989 are not prohibited from continuing their purchases from the same source.

Any user that is allergic to a chemical introduced into the water system or cannot drink the water for other medical reasons may qualify for a reduction of up to one-half the minimum monthly user charge.  A physician or osteopathic physician must substantiate the user's medical condition.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested