The bill S. 139 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 48-1-91, which mandates that any individual or entity holding a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for discharging effluent into state waters must post a conspicuous sign at the discharge outlet. The sign must be durable, at least eighteen inches square, and include specific information such as the words "Treated Wastewater" or "Cooling Water," the permittee's name and facility, the permit number, and contact numbers for both the permittee and the reporting department. There are exemptions for certain discharges, including those composed solely of stormwater and specific NPDES General Permits, as well as provisions for waiving the sign requirement under certain circumstances.

The bill also stipulates that the sign must be posted within twelve months of the act's effective date and maintained thereafter. Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is tasked with notifying all NPDES permit holders of these new requirements by November 29, 2025. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor, and it includes a clause ensuring that if any part of the act is found unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining sections will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 48-1-91
Latest Version: 48-1-91