DE HB9

Requires all public water systems to operate under a duly licensed public water supply operator, with the Department having authority to exempt seasonal systems, restaurants, hotels, and similar businesses.

Establishes an annual licensure fee of $50 per operator and grants the Department exclusive authority to grant or deny licenses and adopt regulations for obtaining and retaining them.

Creates an Advisory Council to assist the Secretary in implementing the public water supply operator requirements.

Authorizes the Department to establish a temporary variance program for water systems that lose their operator.

Allows applicants denied a variance to appeal the Secretary's decision to Superior Court within 30 days, with appeals decided on the record under Title 29 procedures.