SB 223 Summary

• Extends water service discontinuation protections to very small community water systems (200 or fewer service connections) effective July 1, 2022, with same requirements previously applied only to larger urban systems.

• Increases the delinquency threshold before discontinuation from 60 days to 90 days or $250 in unpaid charges, and prohibits discontinuation of master-metered multifamily residences with 4+ units or mobilehome parks.

• Requires water systems to waive disconnection and reconnection fees for customers with household income below 200% of federal poverty line, and mandates inclusion of arrearage management plans in written discontinuation policies.

• Prohibits service discontinuation during declared state or local emergencies affecting the customer's residence, and allows customers to self-certify health and safety threats under penalty of perjury.

• Requires the State Water Resources Control Board to provide technical assistance and establish a bridge loan program for very small systems, and mandates a legislative report by January 1, 2024 on arrearage management plan effectiveness and barriers.