Two U.S. senators introduced a bipartisan bill requiring manufacturers to label nonflushable wet wipes with information about the wipes’ proper disposal. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) introduced the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act, stated a news release from Sen. Collins’ office.
The legislation aims to inform people that wet wipes should not be flushed down the toilet. Because the wipes’ synthetic fibers do not break down, the wipes can obstruct septic systems and sewer pipes. Nonflushable wipes clog pumps, block collections systems and cause other damage that can result in sewage backups and equipment failures.
If the legislation is adopted, “Do Not Flush” labeling would be placed on products like personal care wipes, household wipes, baby wipes and disinfecting wipes.
FEMA assistance available for well and septic systems impacted by California wildfires
California residents whose private wells and septic systems sustained damage from wildfires may be eligible for FEMA assistance to cover repairs or replacement, according to a FEMA media release.
To apply for disaster assistance, go to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362.
Georgia counties launch septic pumping and repair project
Cobb & Douglas Public Health in Georgia has launched a Septic System Pumping and Repair Project, reported multiple media outlets. Low-income homeowners may be eligible for grants of up to $500 for septic pumping or up to $15,000 for septic repairs or sewer connection. Funds are available through the American Rescue Plan Act. To apply, visit the health department’s website, cobbanddouglaspublichealth.com.
Minnesota county increases grants for septic upgrades
Homeowners in Sherburne County, Minnesota, have a limited time to apply for grants to upgrade, repair or replace a septic system. Patriot reported that the County Board increased the maximum grant from $5,000 to $10,000 per septic system, with funds to be spent by May 31, 2025.
The grant program, “Replacing Failing Septic Systems to Protect Groundwater,” received its funding from the Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Nearly $36,000 of the $155,000 grant remains unspent. So, the County Board increased the grant awards with the hope of disbursing all of the funds before the May 2025 deadline.
New Hampshire considering changes to how municipalities can structure housing, well and septic requirements
The New Hampshire State House is considering a bill that would weaken some housing regulations, reported WMUR. Among other provisions, the bill would prohibit municipalities from adopting stricter well and septic requirements than the state’s requirements. Other provisions relate to road length limits and congregate housing units.
Homebuilders in the state support the bill, saying that local regulations hinder their ability to construct new and affordable housing. Opponents of the bill, including the New Hampshire Municipal Association, say the bill is an overreach of state powers and would undermine local control.
Oklahoma helping replace failing onsite systems near streams
Oklahoma homeowners living close to a stream may be eligible for grant funding to repair or replace their failing septic systems, reported the Southwest Ledger. Homes within one-quarter mile of a stream may be eligible for up to $15,000. Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The funding program is a partnership between four state agencies. The Oklahoma Water Resources Board provided funding to the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, and the Department of Environmental Quality is providing free soil profiles. The Grand River Dam Authority is assisting with program administration.
Subsidized septic pumpouts available for low-income residents in Roanoke County
Low-income Roanoke County residents may qualify for no-cost septic tank pumpouts, The Roanoke Star reported. To be eligible, a household’s annual income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line. Septic pumpout grants are available through the Virginia Environmental Endowment. Roanoke County and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission are administering the grant program.
