Unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions govern the construction of this chapter.

1. (a) “Federal act” means the federal Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. Sec. 300f et seq.), and includes any amendments thereto.
2. (b) “State department” means the State Department of Health Services.
3. (c) “Supplier” means any person, partnership, corporation, association, public agency, or other entity, including any Indian tribe having a federally recognized governing body carrying out substantial governmental duties in and powers over any area, that owns or operates a public water system.