New plan to monitor private septic systems opposed

[JAN. 15, 2007]  SPRINGFIELD -- A new plan by the state's Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to monitor private septic systems is generating strong opposition by many Illinois residents, organizations and elected officials.  

The plan states that private septic systems, which discharge contaminants into public waterways, must have an IEPA permit. The plan also calls for twice-a-year inspections and testing, monitored by local health departments. Such inspections could cost as much as $500 per year for homeowners and will create a huge paperwork burden for local officials.

Citizens who want to comment on the proposed rule changes for surface-runoff septic systems should contact Thomas Andryk, IEPA, P.O. Box 19276, Springfield, IL 62794-9276; phone [phone]; [e-mail].

[Capitol Connection]

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