(a) Definition of intractable water systemIn 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 generalNot 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 CongressNot 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.)