The bill amends the Social Welfare Act of 1939 by adding Section 14q, which mandates the creation of a low-income water residential affordability program task force within 30 days of the bill's effective date. The task force will consist of various representatives, including those from small water providers, consumer advocacy groups, community action agencies, municipal governments, and environmental organizations. Its responsibilities include advising the department on best practices for the affordability program, developing guidance and educational materials, seeking additional funding sources, and exploring ways to expand the program.

Additionally, the bill outlines the department's collaboration with the Department of Treasury to distribute funds to water providers to cover the difference between actual bills and discounted rates under the affordability program. It also includes provisions for funding plumbing repairs and administrative costs for third-party organizations involved in administering the program. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of three other specified bills from the 103rd Legislature.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 400.1, 400.119