Florida state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith proposed legislation to set new standards for septic systems, multiple news outlets reported. Senate Bill 1386 implements the recommendations of the Blue-Green Algae Task Force in an effort to reduce toxic blue-green algae blooms and improve water quality.The proposed legislation instructs the Department of Environmental Protection to implement septic program procedures, standards and requirements that include mandatory, periodic inspections of certain septic systems. The bill also requires basin management action plans to meet or exceed pollution reduction requirements.MarylandThe Charles County Health Department in Maryland has updated its septic pumpout reimbursement program, The BayNet reported.
