2018 was the last time an attempt was made to create a comprehensive, rational, generally accepted public health code governing onsite wastewater systems in Michigan.

Much has been published, and commented upon, that Michigan is the only State left that doesn’t have a uniform statewide standard as part of either its environmental or public health administrative code.

WasteWater Education has been actively involved in the process since its founding in 2003 – principally as an independent organization that seeks to combine all points of view and rationalize the science rather than the rhetoric.

In 2018 the effort fell apart due mainly to lack of common sense and a rush to try to enact legislation that had little broad based support among stakeholders. It also included many unfunded mandates that placed an undue burden on already cash strapped local health departments while leaving gaping loopholes in areas such as inspections, installer qualifications, and, perhaps most importantly, the need to allow for regional geologic differences.

Then, as now, we were able to invite commentary from surrounding states who, having gone through a similar lengthy rule making process, emerged with a working, accepted, comprehensive plan that has been law ever since.

You now have your chance to weigh in on the most recent attempt to craft a similar document for Michigan.

Here is a link to the most recent DRAFTS of the 2024 proposed enabling Code legislation.
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