Pennsylvania House Bill HB546

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Further providing for powers and duties of department.

Impact

The amendments will significantly enhance the Department's capabilities in regulating public water systems. It will facilitate more rigorous monitoring and enforcement of drinking water standards, including the ability to institute court proceedings against violators. Furthermore, the Department will have the authority to require public water systems to maintain certain equipment and records, thereby establishing a more systematic approach to protecting water quality. The participation of local health departments as agents of the Department is encouraged, though it remains subject to funding provisions and regulatory consistency.

Summary

House Bill 546 seeks to amend the Pennsylvania Safe Drinking Water Act by expanding the powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources. This amendment focuses on the state's primary enforcement responsibilities regarding drinking water quality, ensuring compliance with both state and federal standards. The bill proposes that the Department will implement a comprehensive public water supply program which includes monitoring of public water systems, establishing compliance procedures, and enforcing drinking water standards. By enhancing these responsibilities, the bill aims to safeguard public health and ensure that residents have access to safe drinking water.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 546 appears to lean towards strong support from public health advocates and environmental groups who view the bill as pivotal for ensuring water safety and protecting communities. However, concerns about the potential administrative burden on local health departments and the adequacy of funding for implementation have been raised. Overall, the discussions suggest a consensus on the importance of maintaining high drinking water standards, though the methods of achieving this may spark debate.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's strict regulatory framework, which some may view as an overreach into local governance. While the intention is to create uniformity and reinforce public health, critics may argue that it limits the capacity for local health departments to address specific community needs and variations in water quality issues. Additionally, ensuring appropriate funding for local agencies to meet these reinforced responsibilities may be contested, making the practical implications of this legislation a topic of ongoing discussion.