Investigate and Prepare Maryland for Water Service Emergencies

Investigate the vulnerabilities in Maryland's water infrastructure and fund serious emergency preparedness efforts before the next crisis hits. The recent power outage at WSSC Water's Potomac Water Filtration Plant was a stark reminder that water service can disappear without warning. Winter water main break season is approaching, and too many residents have no emergency water supply and no plan. On October 15, WSSC Water, Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain, and Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland are hosting a live demonstration in Laurel to show residents how to prepare for a water service interruption. That kind of public education is a start. But a single event is not a statewide strategy. Maryland needs a coordinated, funded plan to harden water infrastructure, expand public outreach, and ensure every household knows how to survive a disruption. I expect action beyond awareness campaigns. Convene the relevant agencies, identify the weakest points in our water systems, and put resources behind fixing them.