Bill > SB161

This bill addresses water quality concerns in West Virginia by establishing a state-level program to assess and mitigate unsafe drinking water conditions. The legislation recognizes that water containing high levels of contaminants can cause serious health problems, including gastrointestinal illnesses, nervous system disorders, reproductive issues, and chronic diseases like cancer. Under this bill, the Department of Health would be required to examine public water systems throughout the state and establish specific thresholds for various contaminants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), microorganisms, inorganic and organic chemicals, and disinfection byproducts. If a public water source is determined to exceed safe contaminant levels, the department would be obligated to provide water filtration equipment or technology to residents served by that water source. The bill emphasizes that factors like the type of contaminant, its concentration, individual susceptibility, water consumption, and exposure duration will be considered when assessing water safety. Additionally, the Department of Health would have the authority to propose rules for legislative approval to implement these provisions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to protecting residents' health through improved water quality management.