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Bill Summary · SB 251

Summary of Senate Bill 251: Water Affordability and Transparency Act

Bill Number: SB 251
Introduced: April 23, 2025
Status: Referred to Committee of the Whole with Substitute (S-2)
Subject: Public Utilities: Consumer Services, Water Supply: Systems and Utilities

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 251, known as the Water Affordability and Transparency Act, aims to ensure that all residents in Michigan have access to safe, clean, and affordable water. The bill establishes criteria for residential water affordability and creates an Office of Residential Water Affordability within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). This initiative is part of a broader legislative effort to address water affordability issues, particularly for low-income households.

Key Provisions

  1. Creation of the Office of Residential Water Affordability:

    • The office will be responsible for tracking data on water providers and their affordability programs.
    • It will maintain a public website with relevant information about water affordability.

  2. Establishment of Water Affordability Criteria:

    • All state departments and agencies are required to implement policies that promote residential water affordability.
    • The criteria must not affect eligibility for federal funds.

  3. Data Tracking and Reporting:

    • The office will collect data on:
      • The status of each provider's residential water affordability program.
      • Shutoff notices and restorations.
      • Customer accounts and arrears.
    • A standardized report form for providers must be developed by April 1, 2028.

  4. Access to Water:

    • The bill emphasizes the right of individuals to access affordable water for consumption, cooking, and sanitation.

  5. Implementation Timeline:

    • The act will not take effect until Senate Bills 248 and 250 are also enacted.

Impact

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects low-income households, particularly those with incomes up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Water Providers: Public and private water suppliers will need to comply with new reporting and affordability criteria.
  • Fiscal Considerations: The establishment of the office and the implementation of affordability programs may require state funding, although specific fiscal impacts are not detailed in the bill.

Legislative Actions

  • November 5, 2025: Reported favorably with Substitute (S-2).
  • November 5, 2025: Referred to Committee of the Whole with Substitute (S-2).
  • April 23, 2025: Introduced by Senator Rosemary Bayer and referred to the Committee on Housing and Human Services.

This summary provides an overview of SB 251, highlighting its objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts on Michigan residents and water providers. The bill represents a significant step toward addressing water affordability issues in the state.

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

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