Alabama Senate Bill SB116

Alabama 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/24
• Report Pass: 2/22/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 4/11/24
• Report Pass: 4/17/24
• Enrolled: 4/30/24
• Passed: 5/7/24

Caption

Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board, continued until October 1, 2025, with modification to allow an organizational meeting to be considered a regular meeting of the board, pursuant to the Sunset Law

Impact

The passage of SB116 will preserve the regulatory authority of the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board, which is critical for overseeing the standards and practices concerning onsite wastewater systems in the state. By continuing the board's existence, Alabama aims to maintain a structured approach to environmental health and safety related to wastewater management. This decision is particularly important as improper management of onsite wastewater can lead to severe public health issues and environmental deterioration.

Summary

Senate Bill 116, introduced by Senator Givhan, relates to the continuation of the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board under the provisions of the Alabama Sunset Law. The bill proposes to extend the board's existence and function until October 1, 2025, with revisions that allow the board's organizational meeting to be credited as a regular quarterly meeting. This legislative move reflects the government's ongoing commitment to regulating onsite wastewater management in Alabama, aiming to ensure that the board functions effectively within the state's regulatory framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards SB116 appears to be largely favorable within the legislative assembly. The unanimous vote of 101-0 in favor of the bill indicates strong bipartisan support, suggesting that lawmakers recognize the importance of the board's existence and role in enforcing standards for wastewater systems. This broad consensus reflects an understanding of the environmental implications tied to onsite wastewater management and signifies a commitment to regulatory oversight in this area.

Contention

While the bill enjoyed wide support, discussions may arise around the implications of its provisions, especially concerning the frequency of the board's meetings and the stipulations for meeting notifications. Critics could potentially argue that frequent amendments to how the board operates might complicate or hinder its effectiveness in implementing regulations. However, the legislation's focus on maintaining the board as a necessary entity suggests an interest in stable governance over onsite wastewater issues, helping to mitigate risks associated with system failures.