Drinking water; maximum contaminant levels, water treatment systems.
Impact
If passed, HB 1295 would significantly impact state laws relating to public health and safety by reinforcing the Board's authority over water supply regulations. It would ensure that the quality of drinking water meets minimum safety standards, which are crucial in preventing health hazards associated with contaminated water supplies. Additionally, the bill implements a system for testing and treatment of contaminated drinking water specifically for individuals relying on private wells and small rural public water systems, establishing the Rural Water Supply Program to facilitate this initiative.
Summary
House Bill 1295 aims to amend the Code of Virginia by enhancing the regulation and control over drinking water quality in the Commonwealth. The bill mandates the establishment of maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for certain harmful substances, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), chromium-6, and 1,4-dioxane. These measures are specifically designed to protect public health and welfare, especially for sensitive populations such as pregnant women, infants, children, and the elderly. The bill emphasizes that these MCLs must not exceed any existing federal standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding HB 1295 could revolve around its funding and implementation, especially considering the establishment of the Rural Water Supply Program that stipulates an operational budget limit of $5 million annually. Stakeholders may debate the adequacy of this budget to effectively manage the testing and treatment of water supplies in underserved rural areas. Moreover, the reliance on third-party certified water treatment systems for addressing emerging contaminants may raise additional questions regarding compliance, certification processes, and the overall feasibility of ensuring widespread access to these essential water safety measures.