HB 4375 Summary

• Creates office of water ombudsman within the legislative council, appointed by and serving at the council's pleasure, to investigate complaints about drinking water quality from public water supplies

• Ombudsman can initiate investigations independently or receive complaints alleging violations of law, departmental policy, or water quality conditions posing significant health/safety issues without effective administrative remedies

• Ombudsman granted authority to access all department and water supplier records and documents, inspect waterworks systems at any time, hold informal hearings, and request testimony and evidence related to investigations

• Ombudsman must submit investigation findings to council within 30 days with recommendations and provide resolution reports to complainants; must consult with entities before publishing critical conclusions and include their responses in publications

• Prohibits retaliation against complainants or persons providing information; violations are misdemeanor offenses punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment or $1,000 fine; act takes effect 90 days after enactment