SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5939

BYSenators Smitherman, von Reichbauer, Kreidler and Bluechel

Directing the department of social and health services to review alternatives for on-site sewage disposal systems.

Senate Committee on Parks & Ecology

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 24, 1987; March 3, 1987

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Kreidler, Chairman; Rinehart, Vice Chairman; Bluechel, Hansen, Kiskaddon.

Senate Staff:Gary Wilburn (786-7453)

                  March 13, 1987

AS PASSED SENATE, MARCH 11, 1987

BACKGROUND:

In 1977 the Legislature found that the failure of large numbers of septic tank systems has resulted in significant health hazards, loss of property values, and water quality degradation.  Local boards of health were directed to identify failing septic tank drain field systems and to determine the existence of new failures.  The Legislature encouraged implementation of corrective methods by specifying nonwater-carried sewage disposal devices, or other alternative methods of treatment as a measure of ameliorating existing substandard conditions.  Local boards of health were authorized, in consultation with the Department of Social and Health Services, to waive applicable sections of local plumbing and building codes that would inhibit use of alternative methods of on-site sewage disposal.

SUMMARY:

The Legislature finds that alternative on-site sewage systems are needed to preserve water quality and the health of the state's citizens, and is an appropriate remedy for failing conventional septic systems.  The Department of Social and Health Services is to perform a review of the alternative on-site sewage program at the state and local level, including funding and procedures for review of proposed alternative systems.  The report shall recommend funding methods, means of expediting review of applications, changes in existing rules and statutes to address alternative on-site system applications, and staffing and resources.  The Department is to consult with representatives of the alternative on-site disposal system industry, environmental community, local health departments, and certain state agencies.

Appropriation:    The sum of $49,500 is appropriated to the Department to carry out the requirements of the bill.

Fiscal Note:      requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Eric Slagle, DSHS; Don Leaf, Washington State Environmental Health Directors; Amy Bell, Puget Sound Water Quality Authority