Relating to boil water notices issued by public drinking water supply systems.
Impact
The implementation of SB2103 is set to modify existing protocols within public drinking water systems in Texas. The legislation aims to protect public health by ensuring that residents are alerted quickly to situations that could adversely affect their drinking water. In cases where the violation is unresolved after 72 hours, the public supply system is required to reissue the boil water notice along with an explanation of the corrective actions being undertaken. This provision emphasizes the importance of transparency and effective communication between water service providers and the community they serve.
Summary
SB2103, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, is a bill that mandates public drinking water supply systems to issue boil water notices promptly when certain health-threatening situations arise. The bill stipulates that if a public drinking water supply system identifies a violation of health and safety rules or a condition that poses a significant potential threat to human health, a boil water notice must be issued within a maximum timeframe of 12 hours. This is aimed at enhancing the immediate response to potential health risks associated with drinking water safety.
Contention
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards ensuring public health and safety, potential points of contention may arise regarding the execution of the mandated notices. Critics could raise concerns regarding the implementation logistics, such as whether all systems can reliably notify residents within the prescribed timeframes. Additionally, the procedures for reissuing notices might also lead to debate about how effectively public systems can manage ongoing violations while addressing community health concerns.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 341. Minimum Standards Of Sanitation And Health Protection Measures
Relating to notice provided by certain public water systems regarding a water service interruption in an area served by a fire department that provides fire suppression services.
Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.