The proposed bill, General Assembly Committee Bill No. 6224, aims to enhance water supplies and address workforce shortages in the water treatment sector. It mandates the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to develop a comprehensive plan that includes several key initiatives: improving the dam permitting process by expanding existing general permits, enhancing the preapplication and intake process for better project understanding, prioritizing permit reviews based on dam classification and function, collaborating with water utilities to address liability concerns related to the Department of Transportation's encroachment permit process, and providing incentives to attract and retain qualified water treatment facility operators. The commissioner is required to submit this plan and any legislative recommendations to the relevant committee by February 1, 2026.

The bill introduces new legal language that outlines these responsibilities and objectives, while it also includes a statement of purpose emphasizing the need for qualified and certified water treatment operators. The act is set to take effect upon passage, and it is designed to amend existing sections of the law to incorporate these new provisions. The bill reflects a proactive approach to improving water management and workforce development in the state.