AR HB1314

Repeals individual financial assurance requirements for nonmunicipal domestic sewage treatment works operators and replaces them with a shared trust fund contribution fee system.

Creates the Nonmunicipal Domestic Sewage Treatment Works Trust Fund, funded by annual permittee contributions capped at $200 per year for no-discharge permits or $1,000 per year for discharge permits.

Exempts state and federal facilities, schools, universities, colleges, and entities connected to municipal sewer systems from trust fund contribution requirements.

Fund collects contributions until reaching $2.1 million, then suspends collections until balance drops to $1.5 million; fund moneys used to hire contractors for remedial action, system operation, maintenance, or closure when owners fail to do so.

Permits remain non-transferable until replacement financial assurance is provided and all past and current permit fees and trust fund contributions are paid; department must approve or deny transfers within 30 days.