Bill > S585

This bill aims to protect drinking water quality in private wells by establishing new definitions, standards, and testing requirements. The legislation defines a "private well" as a water system serving fewer than 15 connections and less than 25 individuals, or serving 25 or more individuals for less than 60 days annually. The bill requires the department of environmental protection to create minimum standards for private wells, including drinking water quality standards that specify contaminants to be tested, acceptable levels, and testing frequency. New private wells must be tested before being used, and existing wells must be tested before property transfers. Local health boards can enforce these standards or set even stricter requirements. The bill also mandates that private wells be inspected within two years before property title transfer, with certain exceptions for transactions like mortgage refinancing or changes in family ownership. Additionally, the legislation provides a mechanism for homeowners to receive assistance through loan guarantees and interest subsidies to install treatment systems that will bring their private wells into compliance with public drinking water standards. The goal is to ensure that private well owners have access to safe, clean drinking water by establishing comprehensive testing and remediation protocols.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S585