Requires water purveyors to conduct, and report to DEP, water loss audits.
Impact
Upon enactment, S278 will require water purveyors to submit completed and validated water loss audit reports to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This process will foster accountability and transparency, as the DEP is instructed to publish these reports online to facilitate public access and comparison among water providers. The bill also calls for the DEP to adopt regulations dictating the standards and practices for conducting these audits within the next 18 months, synchronizing with the American Water Works Association's guidelines.
Summary
Bill S278 proposes significant amendments to the Water Supply Management Act, mandating that water purveyors serving at least 3,300 individuals conduct annual water loss audits. The legislation aims to effectively identify and manage water losses—defined as any discrepancies between the amount of water entering the system and that accounted for through customer usage, which can stem from leaks, inaccuracies, or unauthorized consumption. The goal of these audits is to improve water management practices, leading to water conservation and cost savings for municipalities and residents alike.
Contention
Notably, the bill introduces a grant program to aid water purveyors in achieving compliance with the auditing requirements, which may raise questions about funding allocations and the sustainability of such support. Critics may also argue about the potential egress of funds needed for infrastructure improvements that are essential but not directly linked to audit compliance. Some concerns may revolve around the capacity of smaller water systems to comply with these requirements, particularly regarding the financial and technical resources needed to execute mandated audits, develop new methodologies, and maintain operational standards.
Requires certain water purveyors to identify, and use, alternative water supply source when perfluoralkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances exceed maximum contaminant levels.
Directs DEP to develop State water infrastructure investment plan; requires NJ Infrastructure Bank to publish additional information about water infrastructure projects; appropriates $200,000 to NJ Infrastructure Bank.
Requires public water systems and landlords to provide certain notice of elevated perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances levels in drinking water; requires DEP to establish educational program.
Requires institutions of higher education to test for lead in drinking water annually, report test results, and install lead filters or treatment devices.