The bill aims to enhance the consistency in the classifications of water systems in Washington State by amending existing definitions and regulations related to public water systems. Key changes include the precise definition of "Group A public water system," which now specifies that it includes systems with 15 or more service connections, those serving an average of 25 or more people per day for 60 or more days in a year, or those serving 1,000 or more people for two or more consecutive days. Additionally, a new provision clarifies that a default number of people served per connection cannot be used to classify a water system that would otherwise be considered a Group B system as a Group A system.

Furthermore, the bill allows local governments to establish separate operating permit requirements for public water systems, provided these requirements are approved by the Department of Health and result in an increased level of service. It also stipulates that local requirements for Group B public water systems must be at least as stringent as state requirements, with an exception noted in the new language regarding Group A classifications. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public health and safety, taking effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.125.010, 43.20.030
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.125.010, 43.20.030
Session Law: 70A.125.010, 43.20.030