Public water systems: emergency notification plan.

Assembly Member Hadwick's proposal to modernize California's public water system emergency notifications focuses on expanding communication methods and language accessibility while maintaining existing safety protocols. The legislation builds upon current requirements for water systems to maintain state-approved emergency notification plans for bacterial contamination and other imminent health risks.

The bill outlines two key provisions for water systems updating their emergency notification plans. First, it permits systems to incorporate contemporary communication channels like text messages, email, and social media alongside traditional notification methods. Second, it allows systems to provide alerts in customers' preferred languages when resources permit. Both provisions are structured as optional enhancements rather than mandates.

The State Water Resources Control Board would develop regulations to implement these changes while retaining authority to exempt certain water systems when deemed in the public interest. The bill maintains the existing requirement that water systems must obtain plan approval before receiving or modifying permits, variances, or exemptions. This approach preserves core safety protocols while creating pathways for water systems to voluntarily adopt more inclusive notification practices based on their available resources.