FL S1476

Establishes the blue star collection system assessment and maintenance program as a voluntary incentive program to help public and private utilities limit sanitary sewer overflows and unauthorized pathogen discharge.

Requires utilities seeking certification to document reinvestment rates, periodic structural assessments, maintenance programs, fats/oils/grease reduction programs, and local codes for private pump stations; allows the Department of Environmental Protection to waive requirements for utilities serving populations of 10,000 or less.

Certifications expire after 10 years and renewals require meeting all current program criteria; the department must publish an annual list of certified blue star utilities beginning January 1, 2018.

Authorizes the department to reduce penalties for sanitary sewer overflows and allow certified blue star utilities to apply penalty amounts toward assessment and maintenance activities.

Provides certified blue star utilities with a presumption of compliance with water quality standards for pathogens, 10-year operating permits upon renewal approval, and eligibility for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program; expands Small Community Sewer Construction grants to include private not-for-profit utilities and sanitary sewer assessment programs.