The enactment of HB 671 would significantly alter the current landscape of water system management in Montana. By enabling plumbers to be certified operators, it removes a potential barrier for their involvement in public health-related water safety. This could potentially improve the quality and reliability of water treatment in smaller communities, fostering confidence among residents regarding their public water supply.
Summary
House Bill 671, introduced by J. Fitzpatrick, proposes that state-licensed plumbers be certified as operators of community and public water systems that utilize ultraviolet light for disinfection. This legislation aims to streamline the management of smaller water systems, specifically those with 15 to 50 service connections. By allowing licensed plumbers to take on these responsibilities, the bill seeks to enhance the operational efficiency of such systems and ensure that they meet necessary health standards in their daily operations.
Contention
While this bill appears to offer practical benefits, it may also raise concerns regarding the qualifications and training of plumbers as certified water system operators. Stakeholders may argue about the adequacy of a plumber's training in comparison to formally trained water system operators. Questions could arise about whether the existing standards for operator certification are sufficient to ensure public health and safety, leading to debates over regulatory requirements and oversight mechanisms.