Requires water purveyors to conduct, and report to DEP, water loss audits.
Summary
Senate Bill S1202 proposes amendments to the Water Supply Management Act, establishing requirements for water purveyors serving at least 3,300 individuals to conduct annual water loss audits. This legislation aims to enhance accountability and efficiency within public and private water systems, ultimately ensuring that resources are utilized responsibly and efficiently. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be responsible for setting regulations that govern the methodology and validation processes of these audits according to recognized standards.<br><br>Under the new requirements, water purveyors must submit their first water loss audit to the DEP no later than 24 months after the law's enactment, following which annual submissions will be required. These audits must report losses due to leaks, overflows, and unauthorized consumption, and water purveyors are mandated to inform their customers of the results. The law anticipates a collaborative effort, with the DEP providing grant programs and technical assistance, thereby fostering compliance and improvement in water management practices.<br><br>Opposition to the bill may arise around concerns regarding the additional administrative burden placed on smaller water systems, and the potential financial implications associated with implementing the required audits. Proponents argue that regular audits are a proactive measure to conserve water and enhance service quality, thereby benefiting the environment and public health, while critics fear it could lead to increased rates for consumers to cover the costs of compliance.<br><br>Furthermore, S1202 seeks to improve existing policies by updating definitions and clarifying the roles of responsible parties throughout the auditing process. The overarching intention is to create a more sustainable framework for managing water resources in New Jersey, reducing water loss, and ultimately protecting the quality and availability of water for future generations.