Central Georgia News

State Representative Trey Rhodes (R-Greensboro) has put forward House Bill 1220 in an effort to tackle concerns regarding the lack of oversight on private water companies in Georgia. The legislation aims to ensure fairness, accountability, and consumer protection in the water industry.

Rhodes emphasized the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in all sectors, including essential services like water provision. He stated, "House Bill 1220 not only addresses the lack of oversight on private water companies, but it would also protect consumers' rights and level the playing field for all."

The proposed bill seeks to amend the powers and duties of Georgia's Public Service Commission. Under the legislation, any water company serving 1,000 or more customer service connections within the state would be placed under the jurisdiction of the commission. This move would grant the commission the authority to regulate the rates and prices charged by these companies for their services.

Rhodes believes that extending the same level of transparency and accountability required of municipalities and county water departments to private water companies is necessary. He stated, "Municipalities and county water departments are accountable to the voters, and it's time to extend that same level of transparency and accountability to all players in Georgia's water industry. HB 1220 aims to bridge the gap, ensuring that every consumer, regardless of their water provider, can trust in a system that prioritizes their interests and well-being."

The introduction of House Bill 1220 is a significant step towards addressing the concerns surrounding private water companies in Georgia. The bill aims to provide oversight and regulation to ensure that consumers are protected and that the water industry operates in the best interest of the public.

For more information on House Bill 1220, the full text of the legislation can be found [here](link).