ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland Senators have approved a bill to regulate where new residential septic systems can be installed.
The legislation creates a four-tiered system that counties are expected to use to limit where septic systems can be located, especially in the most rural parts of the state.
Some lawmakers say the bill was significantly weakened last week when senators amended it, taking away any ability of the state to overturn county development plans.
The bill is priority of Gov. Martin O'Malley and has gone through several incarnations since the Democrat championed the issue last year as a way to reduce Chesapeake Bay pollution.
It bill now moves to the House of Delegates. Sen. President Thomas V. Mike Miller said he expects the lower chamber will sign off on the measure.
