Bill > SB363

This bill establishes the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LHWAP) within the Department of Human Services, replacing the previous reference to the Department of Public Welfare. The program, to be implemented by July 1, 2026, aims to help low-income households manage water and wastewater service bills. Eligible individuals must own or rent a home in Pennsylvania, be responsible for water or wastewater bills, have overdue bills that have led to arrears or service termination, and meet specific income guidelines. Water system or wastewater system entities can apply for grants on behalf of eligible customers to prevent service termination, pay overdue bills, or restore terminated services. The department will review applications and determine grant amounts, with each grant having specific conditions. Annually, the department must submit a comprehensive report to various state leaders detailing program participation, customer assistance, and total expenditures, which will also be published on the department's public website. The bill defines key terms such as "water system" (serving at least 15 service connections or 25 year-round residents) and "wastewater system" (as defined in existing environmental regulations). The program is designed to provide a state-level safety net for water assistance after the conclusion of a temporary federal assistance program.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=363