A BILL to amend and reenact § 32.1-174.3 of the Code of Virginia, relating to appointment of receiver for waterworks; public waterworks.
Impact
If enacted, HB1190 would significantly impact the management and oversight of private waterworks within the state. By establishing a legal framework for the appointment of a receiver, the bill aims to protect customers' health and welfare, ensuring that in dire situations, a receiver can manage and operate the waterworks in the customers' best interests. This legislation could lead to enhanced oversight and prompt action when waterworks fail to meet safety and quality standards, ultimately strengthening public health regulations tied to water quality.
Summary
House Bill 1190 pertains to the appointment of a receiver for private waterworks in Virginia. The bill allows the Commissioner to petition the circuit court for the appointment of a receiver when a private waterworks is either unable or unwilling to provide safe water service. Key reasons for such a petition include the inability to furnish pure water, inadequate capacity, non-compliance with orders, abandonment of service, or any imminent danger to public health from the waterworks operation. The bill seeks to ensure that the public has access to safe and adequate water supply, particularly in instances where the operational capacity of a waterworks is compromised.
Contention
While the bill aims to improve water service reliability and public health safety, it may raise points of contention regarding state versus local control over utilities. Stakeholders could express concerns about the potential implications for private ownership and the perceived overreach of state authority into local matters. Discussions might center around the balance between necessary regulation to protect public health and preserving local autonomy for private utilities. Additionally, there may be debates around the definitions of compliance and the criteria for appointing a receiver, which may affect existing waterworks operations.
A BILL to amend and reenact § 32.1-170 of the Code of Virginia, relating to Board of Health; regulations governing waterworks; prohibition on fluoridation of water.