SENATE BILL REPORT

                  2SHB 2098

                     As of March 18, 1999

Title:  An act relating to professional designers of on‑site wastewater treatment systems.

Brief Description:  Regulating designers of on‑site wastewater treatment systems.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives G. Chandler and Linville).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Environmental Quality & Water Resources:  3/19/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY & WATER RESOURCES

Staff:  Richard Ramsey (786-7412)

Background:  In 1997, the Legislature directed the Department of Health to create a work group that would develop recommendations to the Legislature regarding a certification program for occupations related to on-site septic systems.  The On-site Wastewater Certification Work Group returned recommendations relating to bonding levels and other standards for people employed in these occupations and risk analysis relating to the installation and maintenance of different types of septic systems in different parts of the state.

In 1998, the Legislature directed the Departments of Health and Licensing to convene an advisory committee to develop legislation to license designers of on-site septic systems and a certification program for inspectors of on-site septic systems.

Summary of Bill:  A licensing program for designers of on-site wastewater treatment systems is established in the Department of Licensing under the jurisdiction of the Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.  The statewide licensing program provides for uniform application of design practices, standards for designs, and individual qualifications.  The department must create a committee to advise the board and the department on licensing requirements, examinations, and the administration of the program.

Until the licensing program is fully operational in 2003, the department may issue practice permits as an interim license.  License applicants must pass a written examination and meet education and experience requirements.

Employees of local health jurisdictions who inspect, review, or approve the design and construction of on-site systems must obtain a certificate of competency from the department.

As with other professional licensing programs, the program is structured to be self-sufficient on license and application fees.

A work group is directed to study and recommend financial assurances of on-site wastewater practitioners.

The act is null and void if it is not funded in the 2000 fiscal year budget.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.