Bill > HB2010

This bill establishes a safe drinking water grant program designed to help economically distressed communities improve their water infrastructure and quality. The program, to be administered by the state department, will provide financial assistance through grants to public water systems located in economically distressed areas that do not currently meet state drinking water standards. Grants can be used for planning and capital improvement projects, including building, repairing, consolidating, and redesigning water infrastructure. Applicants must provide detailed information about their existing water quality conditions, system deficiencies, and financial constraints. The department will develop an application process by January 1, 2026, with primary consideration given to water quality and financial need. Starting with the 2027-2029 fiscal biennium, the department will submit a prioritized list of recommended projects to the governor and legislature, with priority given to projects with the poorest water quality. Additionally, the bill amends existing state law to strengthen drinking water standards and enforcement, ensuring that water systems maintain federal and state drinking water regulations. The overall goal is to provide safe, clean, affordable, and accessible water to communities that are currently struggling with water quality and infrastructure challenges.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2010&Year=2025&Initiative=false