By Andi Anderson
Michigan’s Senate Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee recently heard testimony on Senate Bill 771, a proposal aimed at creating the state’s first uniform septic system code. The bill, introduced by Senator Sam Singh of Lansing, seeks to address long‑standing gaps in Michigan’s approach to septic wastewater management.
Currently, Michigan is the only state in the nation without a statewide septic code. Local counties manage their own systems, but many lack consistent inspection requirements.
Senator Singh highlighted this issue during last week’s committee meeting, stating, “Right now, Michigan is the only state in the entire country that doesn't have a statewide septic code.” He further noted that counties often do not have a regular inspection process, contributing to uneven oversight across the state.
Lawmakers have attempted to establish a statewide system in the past, but previous efforts were unsuccessful. The new proposal includes several major components designed to improve public health and environmental quality.
These include the creation of a statewide database to track septic system locations and the requirement of periodic professional evaluations. If passed, the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy would have three years to establish statewide standards for septic systems.
Environmental groups have expressed support for the bill. In a letter backing the legislation, the Michigan Environmental Council noted that many septic systems were installed before the 1970s and are now beyond their intended lifespans. The group wrote that lacking an evaluation process is “problematic” and added, “There is no doubt that leaking and failing septic systems are impacting our environment and pose a threat to public health.”
However, some concerns have been raised. The Michigan Association of Counties opposed the bill, emphasizing the need for financial support for repairs to avoid burdening low‑income homeowners. The group also warned that local health departments could be overwhelmed, stating the legislation “assigns substantial new responsibilities without guaranteeing ongoing state funding.”
Senator Singh explained that the bill aims to protect Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and groundwater from contamination. He stated, “The fact that we have systems that are already in disrepair, that are already putting waste into our rivers, into our lakes, is something we should not stand for.”
Following testimony, the committee will deliberate and decide whether the bill should be sent to the full Senate for consideration.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle