Louisiana Senate Bill SCR59

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/6/13
• Refer: 5/7/13

Caption

Directs the state health officer and the Department of Health and Hospitals, office of public health, to provide for certain limitations relative to actions or rules requiring modification of certain existing community water systems. (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Impact

The legislation aims to restrain the state health officer and the office from implementing modifications to existing public water systems unless it can be conclusively demonstrated that such systems cannot meet the National Primary Drinking Water Standards without such changes. This will likely help maintain the status quo for many existing systems, preventing potentially costly upgrades while ensuring continued compliance with federal standards.

Summary

SCR59 is a concurrent resolution aimed at directing the state health officer and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals to establish limitations regarding modifications to existing community water systems. The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring that potable water remains safe for consumption while considering the financial impact on local communities and operators of such systems. By doing so, the bill seeks to create a balanced approach to public safety without imposing undue financial burdens on the users of these systems.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR59 appears to be moderately positive, as it aligns public health goals with fiscal responsibility. Supporters laud the resolution for its thoughtful approach that seeks to avoid unnecessary financial penalties for local water systems, considering the economic implications of mandated regulations. However, there are concerns amongst advocacy groups regarding the sufficiency of maintaining public health standards under these new limitations.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring safe public water supplies and preventing excessive regulatory demands that might lead to elevated costs for local communities. Critics may argue that the resolution could delay necessary upgrades in outdated systems and compromise public health in the long term. The pushback may center around whether the established limitations could hinder the overall improvement of community water standards and affect regulatory enforcement.