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SB 299

Environmental protection: sewage; onsite wastewater treatment systems; regulate, and provide for assessments and evaluations. Amends sec. 12752 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.12752) & adds pt. 128.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 7 co-sponsors

Michigan bill establishing new regulatory requirements for septic system assessments and evaluations to prevent groundwater contamination in communities relying on onsite wastewater treatment.

referred to Committee on Government Operations
#environmentalprotection:sewage #environmentalprotection:waterpollution #health:localhealthdepartments
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Bill Summary · SB 299

Legislative bill overview

SB 299 amends Michigan's Public Health Code to establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks for onsite wastewater treatment systems (septic systems). The bill creates new requirements for system assessments, evaluations, and oversight, adding Part 128 to existing regulations that currently govern these systems.

Why is this important

Onsite wastewater systems serve approximately 1 million Michigan households and businesses, particularly in rural areas without municipal sewer infrastructure. Poorly maintained or failed systems can contaminate groundwater, surface water, and drinking water supplies, posing serious public health risks. Stronger regulations could prevent environmental contamination while potentially imposing compliance costs on property owners.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: Mandatory assessments and evaluations may require homeowners to invest in inspections and system upgrades, disproportionately affecting rural and lower-income property owners
  • Implementation burden: Local health departments would need resources and staff to administer new regulatory requirements; unclear who bears these costs
  • Existing system grandfather clause: Uncertainty about whether new rules apply retroactively to older systems or only to new installations, affecting current property owners' obligations

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

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