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HB 861

Advanced Wastewater Treatment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lindsay Cross

Florida bill to establish advanced wastewater treatment standards died in subcommittee without floor consideration; would have affected water quality and municipal treatment costs.

Died in Natural Resources & Disasters Subcommittee
#reclamation #anduse
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Bill Summary · HB 861

Legislative bill overview

HB 861 would have established or enhanced advanced wastewater treatment requirements and standards in Florida, likely addressing emerging contaminants, nutrient removal, or water reuse capabilities. The bill was introduced in March 2025 but died in subcommittee without advancing to full consideration.

Why this is important

Advanced wastewater treatment directly affects water quality in Florida's sensitive ecosystems, drinking water safety, and coastal health. Given Florida's vulnerability to saltwater intrusion, algal blooms, and nutrient pollution, wastewater standards significantly impact both environmental protection and infrastructure costs for municipalities.

Potential points of contention

  • Infrastructure costs: Enhanced treatment requirements typically impose substantial capital and operational expenses on water utilities, potentially increasing ratepayer fees
  • Regulatory burden: Stricter standards may conflict with local government preferences for flexible implementation timelines and compliance pathways
  • Agricultural/industrial exemptions: Disputes likely arose over which facilities would be subject to requirements and whether exemptions for certain discharge sources were appropriate

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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