Jul. 24, 2017
HARRISBURG – The governor signed into law a bill, which includes an amendment Rep. Parke Wentling (R-Crawford/Erie/Lawrence/Mercer) helped craft, to give residents more options when it comes to choosing septic systems and cuts red tape in the state’s Sewage Facilities Act.
Under the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, the governing law for septic systems, only conventional septic systems are considered during construction planning phases. But once a plan is approved, a builder can switch to an alternate system. Act 26 of 2017, formerly known as Senate Bill 144 and authored by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), eliminates bureaucracy, allowing for alternate systems to be used for planning purposes and when new systems are replacing existing systems.
The amendment Wentling helped craft, which was adopted by a unanimous vote in House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, allows for some alternate systems to be re-categorized as conventional systems. The state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will develop guidelines for re-categorizing alternate systems as conventional systems. The amendment streamlines the permit approval process for residents, which will shave months off the review process.
“DEP will work with the Sewage Advisory Committee to develop scientific, technical and field testing standards to evaluate on-lot alternate sewage systems. Once each system passes the test, it would be reclassified as a conventional system,” Wentling said. “This amendment holds DEP accountable when it comes to on-lot sewage systems.”
The difficulties in using alternate septic systems had been brought to Wentling’s attention by constituents. Seeing the need to correct a problem, he worked with House colleagues to find a solution.
“Allowing alternate systems to be treated as conventional systems widens the area in which land can be developed, opening up previously undevelopable acreage for use. It will also save residents time and money during the approval process,” Wentling said. “This has long been an issue in the 17th District and across the state. I am pleased I was able to work with my colleagues to find a solution.”
Representative Parke Wentling
17th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Greg Gross
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