The bill amends Title 10 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated to enhance the regulation of potable water supplies and wastewater systems, focusing on public health and environmental protection while streamlining the permitting process. It eliminates the previous delegation of permitting authority to municipalities, allowing for a review of connections under general permits instead. A new definition of potable water supply is introduced, encompassing service connections to public water systems of any size, and the definitions of wastewater systems are clarified. The Secretary of Natural Resources is empowered to adopt general permits for these connections, expediting the process for smaller systems, while municipalities can conduct technical reviews of projects that meet specific criteria.

Additionally, the bill establishes a tiered fee structure for permit applications based on design flows, with fees ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the volume. It mandates the publication of a general permit and manual by December 1, 2027, with certifications starting on January 1, 2028. Certain provisions of the Department of Environmental Conservation's existing rules will be repealed effective January 1, 2028, including the full delegation of permitting authority to municipalities. The Secretary is also authorized to enter into agreements with owners of publicly owned treatment works to regulate pretreatment discharges and set application fees. The act will take effect upon passage, with specific provisions related to fee caps commencing 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
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822(j), 3-2822, 10-1263
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822, 10-1263
As Enacted: 10-1971, 10-1972, 10-1973, 10-1976, 3-2822, 10-1263