Substitute House Bill No. 6977 seeks to enhance the regulatory framework governing the Department of Public Health's (DPH) oversight of drinking water and sewage treatment systems. The bill introduces new requirements for the renewal of licenses and certificates for health professionals, mandating annual or biennial renewals depending on the license type, with a specific two-year renewal requirement for those licensed under section 20-278h. It also modifies the DPH's authority over alternative on-site sewage treatment systems by increasing the capacity threshold from 5,000 to 10,000 gallons per day and allowing the commissioner to define discharge categories and issue technical standards for these systems. The bill further streamlines the approval process for public water systems, removing prior review requirements for certain water main installations while ensuring that no construction or expansion occurs without DPH approval.

Additionally, the bill requires applicants for public water systems to provide documentation of ownership or control over the sanitary radius of wells and mandates that DPH adopt regulations covering various aspects of public water system management, including construction approvals, inspection protocols, and water quality standards. The new provisions aim to ensure the safety and adequacy of drinking water while allowing DPH to implement necessary policies during the regulatory adoption process. The effective date for most provisions is set for July 1, 2025, with some taking effect upon passage. Overall, the bill aims to bolster public health protections related to drinking water and sewage management while modernizing the regulatory process.