House Bill 1195, introduced in Maryland on February 6, 2025, aims to overhaul the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) by enhancing transparency and accountability in its operations. Dubbed the WSSC Transparency and Reform Act of 2025, the bill mandates significant changes to the commission's structure and processes, reflecting growing concerns over water management and customer service in the region.

One of the bill's key provisions requires that one of the Montgomery County commissioners on the WSSC be the Director of the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection or their designee. This move is intended to ensure that environmental oversight is directly integrated into the commission's decision-making processes. Additionally, the bill compels the WSSC to develop long-range planning scenarios periodically, aiming to improve strategic foresight in water resource management.

Transparency is a central theme of the legislation. The WSSC will be required to maintain a searchable website that includes detailed information about its operations, making it easier for the public to access data and understand the commission's activities. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the commission from limiting how often customers can receive billing adjustments, addressing concerns about billing practices that may have left some customers in the dark.

The legislation also alters the frequency of certain charges and mandates the appointment of a representative to a coordinating committee, enhancing collaboration with other governmental entities. To ensure the commission's efficiency and sustainability, the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability will conduct a review of its operations.

While the bill has garnered support from local delegations, it is not without opposition. Critics argue that the changes could lead to bureaucratic delays and may complicate the commission's operations. However, proponents assert that the reforms are necessary to restore public trust and improve service delivery.

The implications of House Bill 1195 are significant, as it seeks to address longstanding issues related to water management in Montgomery and Prince George's counties. If passed, the bill could set a precedent for similar reforms in other utility commissions across the state, potentially reshaping how public utilities operate in Maryland. As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders will be closely watching its progress and the debates that unfold.