This bill amends the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1976 by updating Section 5 and adding a new Section 6a. The amendments to Section 5 include changes to the language regarding the Department's responsibilities in promulgating and enforcing rules related to waterworks systems, such as the requirement for the submission of reports and plans, state drinking water standards, and the classification and certification of waterworks system operators. Notably, the bill specifies that the rules must ensure an adequate and reliable supply of drinking water and introduces a new requirement for the establishment and administration of a microplastics program.

Section 6a mandates the Department to establish a microplastics program from July 1, 2027, to July 1, 2030, aimed at assessing microplastic levels in public water supplies. The program will involve quarterly monitoring and testing of water sources, including those from the Great Lakes and nearby agricultural operations. By July 1, 2031, the Department is required to submit a report detailing the findings from the program, including the quantities of microplastics detected and recommendations for addressing their presence in drinking water. The bill also defines "microplastics" and "plastic" to clarify the scope of the program.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 325.1005