Maryland House Bill HB318

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/22
• Refer: 1/19/22
• Report Pass: 3/16/22
• Engrossed: 3/17/22
• Refer: 3/17/22
• Report Pass: 4/9/22
• Enrolled: 4/9/22
• Chaptered: 5/16/22
• Passed: 5/16/22

Caption

Environment - On-Site Wastewater Services - Regulation

Impact

The implementation of this bill will have a significant impact on state laws concerning the oversight and management of wastewater services. A key aspect of the bill is the requirement for individuals providing on-site wastewater services to obtain a license from the newly established Board, which is intended to improve the quality and safety of wastewater management practices. This requires existing practitioners to transition to licensed operations, promoting a standardized level of expertise and accountability among service providers. Local governments still retain the ability to create additional requirements or standards, maintaining some degree of local control over these services.

Summary

House Bill 318 addresses the regulation of on-site wastewater services in Maryland by establishing the State Board of On-Site Wastewater Professionals, which will oversee licensing and regulation of individuals in this field. The bill aims to ensure the safe and effective management of on-site sewage disposal systems, emphasizing public health and environmental protection. It creates a structured framework for professionals providing these services, setting standards for their training, operations, and the maintenance of wastewater systems throughout the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 318 appears generally positive among supporters who see it as a necessary step forward in enhancing public health and environmental standards related to wastewater management. Proponents believe that by regulating this critical area, the state can prevent pollution and ensure proper function of wastewater systems. However, there may also be concerns from parties affected by the new licensing requirements, particularly smaller providers who may face challenges in meeting new standards or fees associated with licensure.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the balance between state oversight and local authority. While the bill centralizes regulation by establishing a state board, it explicitly allows local governments to impose additional regulations. This dual approach raises discussions about the effectiveness of state-level standardization versus the importance of localized responses to community-specific wastewater challenges. Additionally, there may be postponed discussions regarding how funding from the On-Site Wastewater Professionals Fund will be utilized and the potential administrative burden placed on individuals transitioning to this new regulatory landscape.