The bill S.212 amends existing laws regarding the regulation of potable water supply and wastewater systems in Vermont. It establishes a comprehensive program to oversee the construction, modification, and operation of these systems, with a focus on protecting human health and the environment. Notably, the bill allows for the review of potable water supply and wastewater system connections under general permits, which will be adopted by the Secretary of Natural Resources. The bill also introduces a new definition of potable water supply that includes service connections to public water systems of any size and modifies the definition of wastewater systems to refer to sanitary sewer collection systems instead of sewerage systems.

Additionally, the bill outlines the delegation of permitting authority to municipalities for the technical review of projects involving municipal potable water supply and wastewater system connections. Municipalities that receive this delegation must adhere to the Secretary's general permit requirements and can charge fees for their services. The bill also sets forth a timeline for the implementation of these changes, with the Secretary required to publish the general permit and manual by December 1, 2027, and to begin accepting certifications for connections under this permit by January 1, 2028. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822(j), 3-2822
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822(j), 3-2822
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822