What’s Next for Utilities? 4 Key Insights from Industry Leaders

The Utility Leadership & Legislative Summit held on January 30, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, brought critical discussions about the future of water and wastewater utilities in Indiana. Key topics included funding challenges, legislative actions, workforce shortages, cybersecurity threats, and lead service line replacement regulations.

Boyce team members Molly Wilhite, Senior Product Manager, and Ragan Dalton, Keystone Services and Support Manager, attended the Utility Leadership & Legislative Summit and shared 4 key insights from their experience at the event.

Insight #1: Threats to Federal Funding: Protecting Rural Water Infrastructure

Continued cuts to USDA Water and Environmental Programs threaten rural communities’ ability to meet increasing regulatory mandates. Indiana ranks 6th in the nation for USDA funding reliance to maintain reliable water infrastructure.

• Align efforts with the Rural Water Strong Campaign to advocate for sustained federal and state investment in rural water utilities.
• Strengthen legislative relationships and advocacy by proactively engaging with legislators to support policies that sustain small utilities. 
• Monitor legislative sessions for bills that could negatively impact rural utilities.

Key Bills to Watch.

📢 Senate Bill 4 (SB 4): Water Matters 

📢 Senate Bill 426 (SB 426): Water Utility Infrastructure 

📢 Senate Bill 427 (SB 427): Nonjurisdictional Water Utilities 

📢 Statute 514 IAC 1.5-2-9: Streaming of Public Meetings

Stay updated with Legislative Updates from the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water. 

Insight #2: Addressing Workforce Shortages in the Water Industry

The water and wastewater industry faces a nationwide workforce shortage, with many operators nearing retirement and fewer young professionals entering the field.

Take Action.

• Expand workforce development through the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water's nationally recognized Apprenticeship Program to attract and train new professionals.
• Advocate for competitive compensation and benefits at the utility board and state level.
• Engage in legislative efforts such as Indiana Rural Water Day and the National Water Rally to emphasize the need for workforce funding. 

Insight #3: Cybersecurity: Protecting Utilities from Cyber Threats

The increase in cybercrime poses a growing risk to utilities. To safeguard operations, utilities should evaluate their cybersecurity measures.

Take Action.

• Request a free security assessment from Boyer Tech to strengthen your utility’s defenses. 
  

Insight #4: Lead and Copper Rule Compliance: What’s Next?

The Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) and the Lead Service Line Replacement Improvements (LSCRI) are critical regulations utilities must prepare for:

📢 LCRR: The first inventory deadline was October 2024.

📢 LCRI: Compliance extends through 2037, with potential legislative changes that could alter requirements. 

Take Action.

• Communicate with your customers early about lead service line replacement plans.
• Stay informed on policy changes that may affect LCRI funding.

Stay Informed & Get Involved.

📢 Regularly check INH2O’s Legislative Updates to track new policies affecting water utilities.

📢Join advocacy efforts and workforce development initiatives to ensure the long-term sustainability of Indiana’s water industry. 

By staying proactive and engaged, utilities can better navigate legislative changes, secure funding, and strengthen their operations for the future.

Photos from: Indiana Alliance of Rural Water

Blog Authors

Molly Wilhite, Senior Product Manager, Boyce
Molly leads product development and drives innovation for Boyce's product suite.

Ragan Dalton,  Services and Support Manager, Boyce
Ragan leads the Keystone support and services team serving our cities, towns, libraries, and special districts.