An Act To Ensure Access To Safe Drinking Water From Household Wells In Rural Areas By Expanding Testing

This bill requires the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to provide free water testing for arsenic and PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances) to low-income rural households using private wells. It expands existing testing programs by adding PFAS testing through state-approved labs, funded by the department's dedicated testing account, with no fees charged to eligible residents. The bill also mandates educational outreach to inform low-income well owners about the free testing and eligibility for state grants to install water treatment systems if contaminants exceed state standards. These provisions directly affect rural low-income residents relying on private wells, aiming to improve access to safe drinking water through expanded testing and treatment support.