(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.