Overview

This bill mandates the Chief Inspector of Drinking Water in England and Wales to issue guidance to water companies on managing poly and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. The guidance will cover monitoring, reporting, limits, risk assessments, and strategies related to PFAS.

Description

The Poly and Perfluorinated Alkyl Substances (Guidance) Bill amends the Water Industry Act 1991. It requires the Chief Inspector of Drinking Water to create and publish guidance for water undertakers and licensees on handling PFAS in drinking water. This guidance must include:

• Procedures for monitoring and reporting PFAS levels, including monitoring in sewage overflows.
• Permissible limits of PFAS in drinking water.
• Methods for conducting risk assessments related to PFAS.
• Strategies for managing PFAS.
• Specific guidance for companies distributing bulk water supplies.
• Any other relevant matters deemed appropriate by the Chief Inspector.

The Chief Inspector is also empowered to revise the guidance as needed. The bill applies to England and Wales and comes into force upon passage.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The cost will likely be associated with the Chief Inspector's work in developing and publishing the guidance, as well as any subsequent revisions. No figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Water companies (undertakers and licensees): They will be required to follow the guidance, potentially incurring costs related to PFAS monitoring, treatment, and reporting.
• Consumers: Will benefit from safer drinking water through improved regulation and monitoring of PFAS.
• Chief Inspector of Drinking Water: Responsible for creating and publishing the guidance, requiring additional resources and staff time.
• Companies distributing bulk water: Will need to comply with the specific guidance provided for them.

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