MI HB4394

Creates a Water Rate Affordability Program (WRAP) within the Department of Human Services to address water and sewerage bill arrearages and ensure eligible customers' monthly bills are based on household income.

Defines "eligible customer" as someone whose household income does not exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines or who receives state emergency relief, food assistance, medical assistance, or other federal or state public assistance.

Requires the department to complete income eligibility review within 30 days of receiving a nonaffordability affidavit and notify providers of eligible customers; providers must then charge affordable rates or customers may receive subsidies based on income.

Establishes a task force within 30 days of enactment to advise on program best practices and create an implementation plan by March 1, 2016 (to be implemented by October 1, 2016) addressing arrearages and voluntary check-off contributions.

Creates a Water Rate Affordability Program Fund within the state treasury to receive money from voluntary check-offs and other sources, with funds expended only for program administration or subsidies to eligible customers upon appropriation.