(a) Definition of intractable water system
In this section, the term "intractable water system" means a community water system or a noncommunity water system—
(1) that serves fewer than 1,000 individuals;
(2) the owner or operator of which—
(A) is unable or unwilling to provide safe and adequate service to those individuals;
(B) has abandoned or effectively abandoned the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable;
(C) has defaulted on a financial obligation relating to the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable; or
(D) fails to maintain the facilities of the community water system or noncommunity water system, as applicable, in a manner so as to prevent a potential public health hazard; and
(3) that is, as of October 23, 2018—
(A) in significant noncompliance with this chapter or any regulation promulgated pursuant to this chapter; or
(B) listed as having a history of significant noncompliance with this subchapter pursuant to section 300g–9(b)(1) of this title.
(b) Study required
(1) In general
Not later than 2 years after October 23, 2018, the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall complete a study that—
(A) identifies intractable water systems; and
(B) describes barriers to delivery of potable water to individuals served by an intractable water system.
(2) Report to Congress
Not later than 2 years after October 23, 2018, the Administrator shall submit to Congress a report describing findings and recommendations based on the study under this subsection.