Rhode Island House Bill H5417

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/25
• Refer: 2/12/25

Caption

Provides that water utility companies be responsible for all costs associated with maintenance, operation and delivery of water pumping stations to individual parcels of land and schools with no pumping stations on the property.

Impact

If enacted, H5417 would significantly impact state laws surrounding public utilities, particularly concerning water supply services. By codifying the obligations of water utility companies, the bill endeavors to provide more clarity and potentially improve service reliability for citizens living in residential subdivisions. It aims to protect homeowners from incurring unexpected costs associated with water delivery from external pumping stations, which could otherwise be a confusing area under existing laws. The bill seeks to streamline the process of ensuring that water services are effectively delivered without additional burdens on residents.

Summary

House Bill 5417 addresses the responsibilities of water utility companies regarding the maintenance, operation, and delivery of water services. Specifically, the bill mandates that these companies are accountable for all associated costs to provide water to the lot lines of individual parcels within residential subdivisions. This includes any expenses linked to pumping stations that are not located directly within the subdivisions, as well as those supplying water to schools that do not have a pumping station on their premises. The intent is to clarify the obligations of water suppliers and ensure that they are fully responsible for these services.

Contention

While the bill may be seen as a positive step for enhancing accountability among water utility suppliers, it could also lead to increased operational costs for these companies. Critics may argue that the broader financial obligations could eventually be passed on to consumers in the form of higher water rates. There may also be concerns regarding the definitions of residential subdivisions and how these regulations might impact smaller communities or developments. The overall debate surrounding this bill could center on balancing the equitable distribution of resources and accountability versus the financial implications for utility providers.