SB 6044 - DIGEST

     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 pollution from these failing systems poses a risk to public health and water quality, and significantly impacts the shellfish industry.

     Finds that the public health and water quality can be better protected by:  The development of better data; the development of clear lines of responsibility between the designer, installers, and homeowners; and clarifications to the existing law regarding on-site sewage disposal systems.