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Montana counties and public‑health officials oppose HB 658, which would limit local septic standards
Summary
Rep. Jedidiah Hinkle’s HB 658 would set a single state standard for on‑site septic approvals, add a written‑directive requirement, and grandfather non‑failing systems. Proponents argued the bill would protect property owners from arbitrary local changes; county public‑health officials and environmental directors warned it would strip local flexibility needed to protect groundwater and public health in sensitive areas.
Representative Jedidiah Hinkle proposed House Bill 658 to remove a statutory exception that allows local boards of health to adopt stricter septic standards than the state. The bill would require local guidance be provided in writing, grandfather functioning septic systems from new local requirements, and remove some local latitude to impose more stringent standards.
Proponents — including small business owners and operators of local meat processors — said the current system imposes costly, site‑specific demands (e.g., expensive dosing systems required in…
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