Study on intractable water systems

(a) Definition of intractable water system In this section, the term “intractable water system” means a community water system or a noncommunity water system— (1) that serves fewer than 1,000 individuals; (2) the owner or operator of which— (A) is unable or unwilling to provide safe and adequate service to those individuals; (B) has abandoned or effectively abandoned the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable; (C) has defaulted on a financial obligation relating to the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable; or (D) fails to maintain the facilities of the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable, in a manner so as to prevent a potential public health hazard; and (3) that is, as of October 23, 2018— (A) in significant noncompliance with this chapter or any regulation promulgated pursuant to this chapter; or (B) listed as having a history of significant noncompliance with this subchapter pursuant to section 300g–9(b)(1) of this title. (b) Study required (1) In general Not later than 2 years after October 23, 2018, the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall complete a study that— (A) identifies intractable water systems; and (B) describes barriers to delivery of potable water to individuals served by an intractable water system. (2) Report to Congress Not later than 2 years after October 23, 2018, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report describing findings and recommendations based on the study under this subsection. (July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title XIV, § 1459C, as added Pub. L. 115–270, title II, § 2003, Oct. 23, 2018, 132 Stat. 3841.)