Committee advances ban on Class B land‑application near permitted treatment plants

Senator Gaetz told the committee SB 1474 would ensure biosolids and septage are treated to the highest practical level when wastewater treatment facilities are reasonably accessible. The bill directs the Department of Environmental Protection not to issue or reissue permits for Class B biosolids land application if a permitted wastewater treatment facility exists within 50 miles.

An amendment applied the statutory definition of septage. Local officials (Okaloosa County deputy county administrator Jason Autry) testified in favor, saying the county invested $2 million in a wastewater treatment facility and should not be forced to permit land dumping where treatment is available. Alicia Keeter (FRWA) again asked for exemptions to account for rural systems where the nearest permitted plant is more distant or seasonal access limits costs.

Senator Gaetz said the bill allows land application where no treatment facility exists within 50 miles and asked for committee support. CS for SB 1474 was reported favorably. Stakeholders asked for clarity on rural exceptions and the rule’s application to different utility sizes.