HB 5044

Abstract

Amends the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Law of the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. Provides that the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity shall by rule establish a comprehensive low-income water assistance policy and program. Contains various provisions concerning the policy and program. Amends the Public Utilities Act. Adds requirements related to billing statements and reconnection of service for water and sewer utilities. Provides that upon request by a water utility, the Illinois Commerce Commission may allow, but may not require, a water utility to establish a customer assistance program. Provides that an entity subject to certain federal laws that serves or provides water or sewer services to a specified number of people shall conduct a cost of service study every 5 years. Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that within one year of the effective date of the amendatory Act, every community water system shall create a plan to remove all known lead service lines within 10 years from the completion of the plan. Requires each community water system to implement an asset management plan designed to inspect, maintain, repair, and renew its infrastructure within 18 months of the effective date of the amendatory Act. Requires the Department of Public Health to adopt rules for lead replacement that require an expedited timeline for high risk facilities and communities within 18 months of the effective date of the amendatory Act. Creates the Statewide Advisory Council on Lead in Drinking Water and requires specified community water supplies to create water system advisory councils tasked with various duties related to lead in drinking water awareness. Makes other changes.