The bill amends existing Washington state law regarding the classification of public water systems, specifically updating definitions and requirements for Group A and Group B public water systems. Key changes include redefining the criteria for a "Group A public water system" to include 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 Group B as Group A.

The bill also 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. However, it ensures that there are no duplicate operating permit requirements between local governments and the state. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and takes 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