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HB 879

Motor vehicles; penalty for violations captured by school bus camera; provisions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Barton and 5 co-sponsors

HB 879 funds cesspool conversions to eco-friendly systems, aiding property owners and enhancing public health by reducing pollution and improving water quality.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 879

Summary of HB 879: Relating to Cesspool Conversions

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 879 (HB 879) aims to address environmental and public health concerns associated with cesspools in the state. The bill facilitates the conversion of cesspools to more environmentally friendly wastewater systems, thereby reducing pollution and improving water quality.

Key Provisions

  • Cesspool Conversion Funding: The bill includes an appropriation of funds to support the upgrade and conversion of cesspools. This financial assistance is intended to alleviate the burden on property owners who need to replace outdated cesspool systems.

  • Department of Health (DOH) Involvement: The DOH's Wastewater Branch is designated to oversee the implementation of the cesspool conversion program, ensuring compliance with health and environmental standards.

  • Position Creation: The bill provides for the establishment of a new position within the DOH to manage the cesspool conversion initiative, which will help streamline processes and improve program efficiency.

Affected Parties

  • Property Owners: Individuals and businesses currently using cesspools will be directly impacted, as they will be eligible for funding to convert to compliant wastewater systems.

  • Environmental Agencies: The DOH and other environmental regulatory bodies will play a crucial role in the implementation and oversight of the conversion program.

  • Community Health: The bill aims to benefit the broader community by reducing the environmental hazards associated with cesspools, thereby improving public health outcomes.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • Final Passage: The bill passed its final reading in the House on April 30, 2025, and was subsequently transmitted to the Governor.
  • Governor's Approval: The bill was signed into law as Act 188 on June 6, 2025.

Legislative Journey

  • The bill underwent several readings and amendments throughout its legislative journey, including:
    • House Committees: Reviewed by the House committees on Environment and Energy Protection (EEP), Water and Land (WAL), and Finance (FIN).
    • Senate Committees: Passed through the Senate with amendments and was reviewed by the Senate committees on Ways and Means (WAM) and Health, Human Services, and Agriculture (HHS/AEN).
    • Conference Committee: A conference committee was convened to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions, leading to the final amended version.

Conclusion

HB 879 represents a significant step towards improving wastewater management in the state by facilitating cesspool conversions. With its focus on funding, regulatory oversight, and public health, the bill aims to create a cleaner and safer environment for all residents.

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

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