FL H0105

Creates the Blue Star Collection System Assessment and Maintenance Program as a voluntary certification program for public and private wastewater utilities to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and pathogen discharges

Certified utilities must implement periodic collection system inspections, pump station assessments, maintenance programs, fats/roots/oils/grease control programs, and power outage contingency plans; certification expires after 5 years with annual reporting requirements

Department of Environmental Protection must publish an annual list of certified utilities beginning January 1, 2021, and may reduce penalties for sanitary sewer overflows at certified utilities

Certified blue star utilities may receive 10-year operating permits instead of 5-year permits if they meet compliance requirements and have no pending enforcement actions

Expands Small Community Sewer Construction Assistance Act grants to include nonprofit utilities serving disadvantaged communities and allows grant funds for collection system assessment and maintenance programs