State and federal officials have been touting practices to maintain septic systems, as part of SepticSmart week (Sept. 18-22), but bills in Lansing that propose to increase regulation on septic systems are still in limbo.
More than 330,000 septic systems in Michigan are estimated to be failing, but there are currently no uniform state regulations that require monitoring septic systems after they're installed.
Two house bills (HB 4479 and 4480) were introduced in April to mandate routine inspections and set aside funding for homeowners to replace failing systems.
Environmental advocates say the issue of unregulated and failing septic systems has been overshadowed by other policy priorities, but they're still calling for lawmakers to pass a state septic code.
Jennifer McKay is with the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council, which hosted an event Sept. 21 on septic maintenance. She said septic systems are rarely inspected after they're installed and can be quietly contaminating surface and ground waters.
"Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have repeatedly tried and failed to end Michigan's reign as the only state lacking comprehensive regulations to prevent septic systems from polluting our waters,” McKay said.
McKay said it's not too late for the bills to move forward if enough residents show their support.
"...let [your representatives] know that the statewide septic code is a priority for you and the state of Michigan,” McKay said. “And we would like to see [the bills] move and get a hearing very soon."
While the bills have sat untouched, some municipalities like Torch Lake township in Antrim County have passed local septic ordinances that require properties for sale to undergo a septic inspection.
As part of SepticSmart week, the state also hosted a webinar on the basics of septic systems and operation and maintenance tips.
