Maryland Senate Bill SB264

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/26
• Refer: 1/19/26

Caption

Drinking Water - Regulation - Control and Prevention of Waterborne Disease

Impact

The bill will have a significant impact on state laws concerning water safety and public health management. By requiring water suppliers to maintain specific disinfectant levels and to notify the public about potential risks associated with abrupt changes in the water distribution system, SB264 aims to bolster the safety protocols already in place. Additionally, it introduces regulations for building owners to implement water management programs based on recognized standards, which will provide a more proactive approach to managing the risks associated with waterborne diseases.

Summary

Senate Bill 264, entitled 'Drinking Water – Regulation – Control and Prevention of Waterborne Disease,' focuses on enhancing the safety of public water systems in Maryland. It establishes minimum detectable disinfectant residual level requirements and mandates regular testing to control Legionella bacteria and other harmful pathogens. The legislation aims to ensure that suppliers of water provide timely notice regarding any disruptions in service that could lead to increased health risks associated with waterborne pathogens, including Legionnaires' disease. Furthermore, it requires the Maryland Department of Health to develop a public awareness campaign to educate residents about the health risks and preventive measures related to Legionella.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB264 include potential concerns regarding the financial implications for both suppliers of water and building owners. Suppliers may face increased operational costs to meet the new testing and reporting requirements, while building owners will need to invest in water management systems. There may also be debates about the effectiveness of the proposed public health campaigns and whether they adequately address the concerns of vulnerable populations. Ultimately, the passage of SB264 reflects a growing recognition of the importance of ensuring safe drinking water in Maryland amidst rising concerns over public health.