FL H1319

Replaces the blanket exemption from Public Service Commission (PSC) regulation for nonprofit water and wastewater utilities with a new "qualifying nonprofit organization" standard that imposes specific governance requirements, including open elections, maximum 36-month board terms, at least 75% member composition on the governing board, and a direct member nomination process requiring only 1% of member signatures

Authorizes the PSC to initiate proceedings, on its own motion or by petition from any person, to determine whether a nonprofit water or wastewater organization meets the qualifying nonprofit criteria and is therefore exempt from commission jurisdiction

Requires the PSC to give a non-qualifying organization 90 days to address deficiencies before issuing a final order stripping its exempt status and subjecting it to utility regulation

Allows a disqualified organization to petition the PSC to regain qualifying nonprofit status after a 24-month waiting period, with an additional 24-month wait required if the petition is denied

Takes effect July 1, 2026, and requires the PSC to propose implementing rules as soon as practicable after that date