The Lead Line Replacement Act aims to establish a comprehensive program for the replacement of lead service lines in Ohio, mandating that public water systems replace all lead service lines within fifteen years of the bill's effective date. The legislation allows various local entities, such as townships and counties, to utilize specific sections of the Revised Code for the replacement and cost recovery of both lead and non-lead service lines. It introduces definitions for key terms related to lead service lines and creates a drinking water assistance fund to provide financial and technical support for compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. The program will be overseen by the director of environmental protection, who is responsible for adopting necessary rules, ensuring public awareness, and collaborating with local authorities for funding.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific procedures for implementing the lead service line replacement program, including the establishment of a publicly accessible database for tracking replacements and a training program for operators and contractors. It requires public water systems to submit lead service line replacement plans that meet outlined requirements, with the director authorized to issue corrections if plans are inadequate. The bill also clarifies that lead service line replacement projects are considered public improvements and allows for reimbursement to customers who replace lines under certain conditions. Furthermore, it repeals existing sections of the Revised Code to streamline the legal framework surrounding these replacements.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 6109.01, 6109.22