S257 - 2026 Appropriations Act. (SL 2026-41)

View Bill Information

Session Year 2024

Overview: Section 12.8 of S.L. 2026‑41 (Senate Bill 257) requires the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to report to the Utilities Commission (Commission) whenever a water or wastewater public utility has three or more violations within a 12‑month period of either an environmental permit or a law administered by DEQ. DEQ must collaborate with the Commission in developing and maintaining an online reporting system that contains up‑to‑date information about each water or wastewater public utility's compliance with any applicable environmental permits or laws. This section also gives the Commission authority to investigate and inspect a water or wastewater public utility in violation of any environmental permit or law and order any remedial actions necessary to reasonably and adequately serve the public convenience and necessity.

This section became effective July 1, 2026.

Additional Information: