House Status:
Senate Status:
Senate Status:
Minutes for SB120 - Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources
Short Title
Authorizing the secretary of health and environment to adopt rules and regulations for an annual certification program for the replacement of distribution systems segments and increasing the amortization period on loans from the Kansas water pollution control revolving fund.
Minutes Content for Tue, Feb 14, 2023
Chairperson Kerschen opened the hearing on SB120.
Tamera Lawrence with the Revisor of Statutes Office explained the bill. It would authorize the Secretary of Health and Environment to adopt rules and regulations for an annual certification program for the replacement of distribution system segments and increase the amortization period on loans from the Kansas Water Pollution Control Revolving Door Fund.(Attachment 1)
Nick Hernandez testified in support of the bill. He told the committee that the bill will allow Dodge City and other Kansas public water suppliers to more efficiently implement water distribution projects and maximize the use of qualified engineering staff. In Dodge City's case, the expansion of the wastewater facility will serve as an economic enhancement for the region in addition to helping to sustain the Ogallala Aquifer.(Attachment 2)
Josh Svaty spoke in favor of the bill. He stated that Kansas Municipal Utilities supported the increase in the amortization period for loans from the Kansas Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund from 20 to 30years.(Attachment 3)
Tom Stiles testified as a proponent of the bill. He explained that the proposed changes to the existing statute would expand the types of distribution system projects covered under the certification program by also including projects that replace existing sections of the distribution system which is a common infrastructure need. (Attachment4)
Written proponent testimony was submitted by:
Ellen Parker- WaterOne (Water District 31 Johnson County)(Attachment5)
Wendi Stark-League of Kansas Municipalities(Attachment 6)
Questions and discussion included the number of loans the state was responsible to cover as well as the process for changing rules and regulations of a state agency,
Chairperson Kerschen closed the hearing on SB120 and adjourned the meeting at 9:00.
