Kansas House Bill HB2633

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 1/30/24
• Report Pass: 2/8/24
• Engrossed: 2/23/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Providing for additional sources of revenue for the water program management fund and requiring water supply system and wastewater treatment facility operator certification examination fees to not exceed the costs for such exams.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 2633 are likely to have significant implications for state laws concerning water management and infrastructure. By limiting the examination fees, the bill could facilitate a more robust workforce of certified operators, ultimately contributing to public health and safety regarding water quality. Moreover, the additional revenue sources for water program management could lead to improved funding for infrastructure projects, addressing the state's ongoing challenges in maintaining and upgrading water systems. This legislation recognizes the vital role of certified operators in managing these essential services.

Summary

House Bill 2633 aims to enhance the funding mechanisms for water program management by allowing for additional sources of revenue. It is specifically designed to ensure that fees for certification examinations required for water supply system and wastewater treatment facility operators do not exceed the actual costs associated with administering such exams. This move is expected to make the certification process more accessible while ensuring that the integrity of the certification is maintained. The bill emphasizes the importance of having certified operators to manage critical water and wastewater facilities effectively.

Contention

Despite the positive aspects, there may be points of contention regarding the bill, particularly concerning how the additional revenue sources will be defined and utilized. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about the sustainability of funding and whether the new resources will adequately cover operational costs in the long run. Further discussions may emerge around the balance of regulatory oversight and the need for efficient financial management within state-supported water programs. Ensuring that the revenue generated truly serves the intended purpose without additional burdens on taxpayers or operators remains a crucial aspect of the bill's evaluation.