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HB 204

Drinking Water - Regulation - Control and Prevention of Waterborne Disease

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen

HB 204 strengthens Maryland's drinking water protections by establishing disease prevention regulations and enforcement authority over waterborne pathogen contamination risks.

Hearing 2/04 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 204

Legislative bill overview

HB 204 establishes regulatory frameworks for controlling and preventing waterborne diseases in Maryland's drinking water systems. The bill appears to expand state oversight and enforcement mechanisms related to water quality standards and public health protection measures.

Why is this important

Waterborne disease outbreaks pose significant public health risks, affecting entire communities and creating economic costs through healthcare expenses and operational disruptions. Strengthened regulations can prevent contamination events like those involving cryptosporidium, legionella, and other pathogens that have historically caused widespread illness.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Water utilities may face increased compliance expenses that could be passed to consumers through rate increases
  • Regulatory scope and clarity: The specific requirements and enforcement mechanisms aren't detailed in available pre-file information, creating uncertainty about burden on small/rural water systems
  • Federal-state relationship: Maryland's approach may overlap with or diverge from EPA standards, potentially creating compliance complexity or jurisdictional questions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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