Virginia House Bill HB348

Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/26
• Refer: 1/12/26
• Report Pass: 1/28/26

Caption

Residential Well Water Testing and Treatment Program and Fund; established.

Impact

The implementation of HB348 is expected to have significant implications for state law by formalizing support for private well owners who may not have the financial resources to address water quality issues on their own. The bill mandates the establishment of a program administered by the Department, which will create guidelines for evaluating need and determining grant eligibility. This assistance is particularly crucial for low-income residents who may find the burden of ensuring safe drinking water unbearable without such support.

Summary

House Bill 348 introduces the Residential Well Water Testing and Treatment Program and Fund in the state of Virginia. This legislation aims to address the issue of contaminated drinking water by providing a structured program to assist residential well owners with the testing and treatment of their water. The bill establishes a framework for granting financial aid to eligible homeowners to cover part of the costs associated with necessary treatment and filtration systems, ensuring compliance with established water quality standards set forth by regulatory bodies such as the EPA.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB348 could revolve around the allocation of state resources and the defined limits of state intervention in private water matters. The bill stipulates that grant awards for testing and treatment will not exceed 50% of the costs, placing a ceiling on financial support, which may draw criticism from advocates who believe more robust funding is necessary. Furthermore, discussions may arise regarding the long-term sustainability of the Fund, which is capped at $3 million annually, as to whether this amount will sufficiently address the needs of all affected residents.

Operational framework

The bill also outlines the necessary compliance and certification processes for treatment systems, mandating that they meet stringent criteria before being eligible for funding through the newly established Residential Well Water Testing and Treatment Program Fund. This ensures that the emphasis not only lies on financial support but also on the effectiveness and safety of the water treatment systems implemented under the program.