Bill > HB1615

This bill modifies the definitions and regulations for public water systems in Washington state, with a focus on clarifying the classification of water systems. Specifically, the bill updates the definition of "Group A public water system" to specify that a system is classified as Group A if it has 15 or more service connections, serves an average of 25 or more people per day for 60 or more days in a calendar year, or serves 1,000 or more people for two or more consecutive days. Importantly, the bill introduces a new provision preventing the use of default population numbers that would artificially reclassify a water system from Group B to Group A. Additionally, the bill modifies local government regulations, allowing them to establish additional requirements for Group B public water systems, with the new language specifically referencing the prohibition on using default population calculations to change water system classifications. The bill is declared an emergency measure, meaning it takes effect immediately upon approval, with the stated purpose of preserving public health, safety, and supporting state government institutions. These changes aim to increase consistency and precision in the classification and regulation of water systems across Washington state.