HB 2929-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Recognizes that a major source of nonpoint pollution is failing on-site sewage disposal systems.  The 1999-2001 Puget Sound water quality work plan, developed by the Puget Sound water quality action team, indicates that local governments have reported failure rates for on-site sewage disposal systems of up to twenty-five percent along the shoreline of Puget Sound.

     Finds that the public health and water quality can be better protected by:  (1) The development of better data;

     (2) the development of clear lines of responsibility between the designer, installers, and homeowners; and

     (3) clarifications to the existing law regarding on-site sewage disposal systems.

     Requires the department of health to develop a model program pertaining to on-site sewage disposal systems that describes the authorities, roles, and responsibilities of designers, installers, and homeowners.  In developing the model program, the department shall involve local health jurisdictions, owners of on-site sewage disposal systems, designers and installers of on-site sewage disposal systems, and builders.

     Directs the department of health to develop recommendations for establishing a state-wide system of risk assessment data for on-site sewage disposal systems.  The department shall consult with local health jurisdictions in developing the recommendations.