Connecticut Senate Bill SB00049

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/19
• Refer: 1/16/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Boards Of Education To Conduct Testing Of School Water Supplies For The Presence Of Lead.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend Chapter 169 of the general statutes, thereby establishing a regulatory framework that requires regular monitoring of potable water systems in school buildings. The impact on state laws would be significant, as it would enhance existing safety standards related to water quality in educational settings. By institutionalizing the testing of school water supplies, the state would be taking proactive measures to protect students and staff from potential lead poisoning, which can have detrimental effects on health and educational performance.

Summary

SB00049 is an act aimed at improving public health in schools by requiring local and regional boards of education to conduct testing of water supplies for lead contamination. The bill mandates that these educational authorities submit water samples to the Department of Public Health for periodic testing. The primary intention behind this legislation is to ensure that drinking water in public schools is safe and does not contain harmful levels of lead, an issue that has garnered substantial attention due to its serious health implications for children.

Contention

Although the bill is largely supported by health advocates, there could be points of contention surrounding the logistics of implementing such testing. Concerns may arise regarding the funding and resources required for schools to conduct these tests and the potential administrative burden it may impose on educational bodies. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the sufficiency of testing frequency or the thresholds for acceptable lead levels, as different stakeholders may have varying opinions on what constitutes a safe drinking water standard in schools.