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Subcommittee asks VDH to develop guidance for on-site sewage systems and private wells; bill reported unanimously
Summary
House Bill 2309, as substituted, directs the Virginia Department of Health to develop guidance on permit solutions for on-site sewage systems and private wells and to require local statements describing the nature of public-health or environmental risk; the subcommittee reported the substitute 8–0.
House Bill 2309, sponsored by Delegate Hodges, requires the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to develop guidance on permitting solutions for on-site sewage systems (commonly referred to in testimony as septic systems) and for private wells. The substitute adopted by the subcommittee clarifies terminology (using “on-site sewage system” and “private well”), specifies the guidance applies when revocation occurs prior to giving applicants an opportunity to implement solutions, and requires local health authorities’ statements to indicate the specific nature of the public-health or environmental risk posed.
Delegate Hodges said the measure responds to frequent permitting and failed-system issues in parts of the Middle Peninsula and seeks to provide localities and owners with recognized, permissible technical solutions that may not be commonly recognized. Counsel said the substitute cleaned up statutory references and added clarity; the substitute does not direct mandatory remedies but provides a framework for VDH guidance and stakeholder engagement.
There were no public oppositions recorded in the hearing. The subcommittee adopted the substitute and voted to report the bill; the clerk recorded the roll as 8–0 in favor.
Ending: The substitute was reported to the next stage; VDH will be expected to develop guidance with stakeholders to identify acceptable approaches for permitting and remediation of on-site sewage systems and private wells.
