Florida state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith proposed legislation to set new standards for septic systems, multiple news outlets reported. Senate Bill 1386 implements the recommendations of the Blue-Green Algae Task Force in an effort to reduce toxic blue-green algae blooms and improve water quality.
The proposed legislation instructs the Department of Environmental Protection to implement septic program procedures, standards and requirements which include mandatory, periodic inspections of certain septic systems. The bill also requires basin management action plans to meet or exceed pollution reduction requirements.
Charles County updates pumpout reimbursement program
The Charles County Health Department in Maryland has updated its Septic Pump-Out Reimbursement Program, The BayNet reported. Effective Jan. 1, residents must contract with a county-approved septic pumper in order to qualify for a $100 septic pumping reimbursement. Charles County advises residents to schedule routine septic maintenance every three to five years.
Nonprofit group supports Oregon’s Clean Water Loan program
A nonprofit lending organization stepped up to support the struggling Clean Water Loan program in Oregon, Elkhorn Media Group reported. Craft3 contributed $1 million to the Clean Water Loan program. Program administrators project that the million-dollar contribution will keep the program running until March 2026. The Clean Water Loan program provides emergency loans for septic system repair and replacements.
Craft3 also identified potential long-term funding support available through the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, the Oregon Legislature is considering $2 million in funding to cover the loan program through mid-2027.
The State of Oregon and Craft3 have supported 350 septic projects since 2016 by offering loans with affordable interest rates and other types of financial assistance.
Summit County replaces failing septic systems
Eight households in Summit County, Ohio, received financial assistance to repair or replace their failing septic system, Spectrum Local News reported. The septic system funds were a portion of Summit County’s $4.3 million investment in local housing. The county also invested in its Home Weatherization Assistance Program for low-to-moderate-income households and the Lead Safe Ohio Program.
New York county provides financial assistance to replace onsite systems
Homeowners in Schoharie County, New York, may qualify for financial assistance to replace a failing septic system, The Mountain Eagle reported. The Schoharie County Rural Preservation Corporation and the Schoharie County Office of Planning and Community Development Services have teamed up to start a Septic System Replacement Program. The program applies to homeowners who meet income guidelines. Only primary residences are eligible. For homeowners who meet program requirements, the cost of septic replacement can be deferred or forgiven after five years.
