Michigan House Bill HB4480

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/27/23
• Refer: 4/27/23
• Report Pass: 12/12/24

Caption

Environmental protection: sewage; onsite wastewater treatment systems; regulate and provide for assessments and evaluations. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding secs. 12815, 12817 & 12829. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4479'23

Impact

If enacted, HB4480 will influence both local practices and state-level regulations regarding wastewater management. The bill requires the establishment of performance-based standards for conventional and alternative treatment systems that will focus on site selection, design, installation, and maintenance protocols. These standards are intended to safeguard surface and groundwater quality, which is particularly important for regions lacking centralized wastewater services. By enforcing stricter regulatory measures, the state aims to ensure public health protection while promoting responsible environmental stewardship.

Summary

House Bill 4480 aims to amend the Public Health Code in Michigan by introducing regulations for the management of onsite wastewater treatment systems. This bill establishes a technical advisory committee to help create recommended standards for these systems and to provide guidance on nonproprietary technologies, testing methods for product registration, and inspector qualifications. These measures intend to ensure that onsite wastewater treatment systems are managed effectively to protect public health and environmental quality.

Contention

Although the bill is framed as a measure to enhance health and environmental protections, there may be contention about the potential financial implications for homeowners and local health departments. Critics may argue that the requirements for grants and loans for system improvements could strain public resources, thereby impacting local budgets. Moreover, the establishment of a technical advisory committee comprising various stakeholders might lead to differing opinions on the best practices for managing onsite systems, revealing a potential clash between local priorities and statewide guidelines.