Bill > S08499

This bill establishes comprehensive measures to prevent and control Legionnaires' disease by requiring public water systems and building owners to take specific actions to minimize legionella bacteria growth. The legislation mandates that public water system owners maintain a minimum disinfectant residual level, conduct regular testing, and provide notifications during water system disruptions. It requires the Department of Health to investigate each reported Legionnaires' disease case, including testing potential exposure sources and creating a public registry of de-identified case data. Building owners with facilities meeting certain criteria must implement water management programs to reduce legionella bacteria risks. The bill also establishes a public awareness campaign to educate consumers about legionella bacteria, its sources, and prevention methods. Additionally, it creates a Legionnaires' disease prevention fund to support public education efforts, with fines from violations deposited into this fund. The goal is to proactively address waterborne pathogens, protect public health, and provide transparency about Legionnaires' disease risks and occurrences.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8499