Bill > HB2079

This bill amends the law regarding sewer systems to prohibit mandatory hook-ups and installation fees for new or expanding sewer systems. Specifically, the bill removes a previous provision that allowed public service districts to compel property owners to connect to sewer facilities and mandatorily use them. The legislation eliminates the district's ability to petition a circuit court to force property owners to connect to sewer lines, even when sewage can flow by gravity or through approved alternative methods. Instead, the bill maintains that districts can charge rates and services only after providing 30 days' notice of sewer facility availability. The bill also preserves existing provisions about billing, service discontinuation, and lien rights for unpaid services. Additionally, the bill includes technical changes such as renumbering subsections and maintaining other existing rules about service rates, public notice requirements for rate changes, and payment methods for utility services. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for property owners regarding sewer system connections and reduce mandatory connection requirements.