A July 25 Washington Post Associated Press article reports that the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review (AELR) Committee voted 11-8 to approve regulations requiring the use of best available nitrogen removal technology in all new septic systems and replacement systems that add capacity.  As previously reported on Conduit Street, AELR Committee heard concerns about the proposed regulations from various stakeholders, including a letter submitted by MACo.

Now, the Maryland Department of the Environment will consider public comments until Aug. 15 before deciding on the final regulations, which could take effect within weeks after the comment period ends.

Supporters say the regulations are aimed at working in tandem with a law passed this year to limit septic system development to remove nitrogen output adding up to about 31,000 households by 2026.  Critics say the regulations will add at least $8,000 to the cost of a new home.