Governor signs Engell bill to reduce bureaucracy surrounding small water systems

‘Anytime we can remove a layer of bureaucracy in government, especially when it comes to access to water and building homes, it should be considered a win,’ says Engell.

Students from Log Church Christian School in Brewster recently visited the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. While they met with legislators and toured the Capitol Campus, they were surprised by the opportunity to witness and partake in a bill-signing ceremony with their 7th Legislative District Rep. Andrew Engell, R-Colville.

“Sometimes the timing of things just works out,” said Engell. “It was exciting to have my first bill signed into law by Gov. Ferguson, but having the students join me made it that much more special. They got to see the end of a long legislative process. They got to be in the room when legislation was signed and I appreciate that the governor was very cordial and interactive with them. I hope they were inspired and appreciate even more our form of government.”

Engell’s legislation, House Bill 1947, will make small water systems more affordable and accessible.

Water systems classified as Group B systems will no longer be required to be owned or operated by a satellite system management agency unless the water system:

  • is required to provide treatment to meet water quality standards;
  • provides fire flow;
  • has atmospheric storage (is exposed to air); or
  • serves 10 or more service connections.

“This legislation is going to benefit people who may want to share a small Group B water system,” said Engell. “It removes the middleman required under current law. These satellite system management agencies (SMA) are certified by the state Department of Health. But on small, simple, and safe water systems, they are unnecessary and can be overly expensive for the services they provide.

“Anytime we can remove a layer of bureaucracy in government, especially when it comes to access to water and building homes, it should be considered a win,” continued Engell.

Engell’s bill passed unanimously in both the House and Senate and was also cosponsored by his 7th Legislative District seatmate, Rep. Hunter Abell, R-Inchelium. It will go into effect on July 27, 2025, 90 days after the legislative session adjourns.

Photo Credit
Washington State Legislative Services

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov