The bill amends existing laws regarding the certification of operators for public water supply systems and wastewater treatment facilities in Kansas. Key provisions include the addition of members to the public water supply advisory committee, which will now consist of four appointed members instead of two, representing various water associations and municipal utilities. The bill also mandates that the Secretary of Health and Environment submit an annual report to the legislature detailing the number and pass rates of operator examinations over the previous two years. Furthermore, it establishes that fees for operator certification examinations cannot exceed the actual cost of the examinations.

Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for the Secretary to certify operators through correspondence courses, emphasizing the need for classroom instruction. It also repeals certain sections of existing law, including K.S.A. 65-4506 and K.S.A. 65-4513, while amending K.S.A. 65-4513 to set a maximum fee for individual operator examinations at $200 or the cost of the exam, whichever is less. The legislation aims to enhance the oversight and regulation of public water supply systems, ensuring better compliance with health standards and improving the quality of water services in the state.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-4513, 65-4506
As Amended by House Committee: 65-4506, 65-163, 65-4513