The department has a program to assess the condition of water systems, which it measures by assigning a risk rating. You're right that the risk ratings have not changed, so approximately 43% of water systems are still assessed as high or medium risk.
That does not necessarily mean water advisories will be issued, but it does point to deficiencies in system maintenance or a lack of qualified and certified water system operators. The department uses it as a barometer.
The situation is a clear sign that the funding formula is outdated. Until it is updated, it will be hard to determine whether the level of funding provided is enough to meet the needs.
The first thing the department should do is update the funding formula so that it takes into account new technologies, gaps and needs. It's not just about operational requirements. It's also about keeping—