(a) It is the policy of the State to authorize each county and municipality to displace or limit competition in the area of water and sewerage systems to:

(1) assure delivery of adequate, economical, and efficient water and sewerage services;

(2) avoid duplication of water and sewerage facilities;

(3) control disease and provide for the public health and safety;

(4) prevent environmental degradation;

(5) protect natural resources;

(6) use the public right-of-way efficiently; and

(7) promote the general welfare by providing adequate water and sewerage systems.

(b) (1) Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a county or municipality may:

(i) grant one or more franchises or enter into contracts for water or sewerage systems on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis;

(ii) impose franchise fees;

(iii) establish charges and rates applicable to the franchise; and

(iv) adopt rules, regulations, and licensing requirements for the operation of the franchise.

(2) If another law grants a county or municipality the authority to operate water and sewerage systems, the county or municipality shall operate the systems without regard to any anticompetitive effect.