Md. Sen. Gives Preliminary Approval To Septic Bill
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill that regulates where new residential septic systems can be installed, but some say amendments weaken the development measure.
Senators considered the bill Friday evening, amending it to give local jurisdictions authority on where large residential subdivisions that use septic systems can be located.
It requires counties to create a four-tiered system limiting septics, especially in the most rural areas. It does not allow the state to override those plans.
Opponents of the amended legislation say it has been dramatically weakened and opens the door for counties to develop in areas state planning officials want to preserve.
Supporters of the amendments say the watered-down measure protects property values.
Final consideration of the bill is expected early next week.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
