Purpose

The bill aims to establish a new program designed to mitigate contaminants in drinking water. Specifically, it focuses on providing financial incentives to improve water quality in residential areas affected by high levels of harmful substances.

Main Provisions

• Drinking Water Contaminant Mitigation Program: The bill requires the creation of a rebate program under the Pollution Control Agency. This program will provide rebates to contractors installing water treatment systems that reduce contaminants in residential buildings.
• Rebate Details: Contractors may receive a rebate of up to $1,400 for the installation of eligible water treatment systems. These systems must comply with the Minnesota Plumbing Code and effectively reduce known or emerging drinking water contaminants.
• Application Procedures: To qualify for a rebate, both the homeowner (or lessee) and the contractor must sign the application. Contractors need to ensure the system is installed according to regulations and submit the application themselves for processing.

Significant Changes

• Income and Area Requirements: The bill sets eligibility criteria for rebates including:
  • The residential building must be within an area recognized for contaminated water, specifically where manganese levels exceed health guidelines.
  • The household income for the owner or lessee must not exceed $95,000.
• Funding and Duration: Funds for this program will come from the general fund starting in fiscal year 2026. The funding is a one-time appropriation designed to last until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

drinking water, contaminate mitigation, rebate program, water treatment systems, manganese, Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Plumbing Code, residential buildings, household income, eligible areas.