HB132 emphasized the need for these regulations to: 1) prevent AOSS from being installed in wetlands;  2) allow localities to regulate AOSS permits in response to the need for nutrient reduction in the Chesapeake Bay impaired tributaries; 3) require a 50 foot setback from the shoreline of an impaired watershed; 4) require a one-foot vertical separation between an AOSS treatment zone and the groundwater, and: 5) ban direct discharge of effluent into groundwater.

In summary, we support the prohibition on installation of AOSS in wetlands, we support the additional nutrient reduction standards, and we support the mandatory operation and maintenance requirements.

I do not support the placement of these systems above groundwater with no zone of dry insitu soil separation.  I view the proposed conditions on the placement of these systems in those situations as inadequate to protect public health.  I see no definition of “wet season” that would guide the installation of these systems and object to any septic system being installed on a site that is flooded at any time.  I do not support the allowance of direct dispersal of sewage effluent into groundwater.

Thank for voting YES for HB 132.