MD HB1124

Authorizes the Maryland Department of the Environment to establish a privatization program for well and on-site sewage disposal system activities in Dorchester County upon request from the county government and local delegated approval authority

Requires the Department to conduct mandatory compliance audits at least annually, establish reporting and performance monitoring requirements, and implement consumer protections including fee caps and dispute resolution mechanisms

Participants must be state-licensed environmental health specialists with demonstrated experience in well or sewage disposal activities, carry appropriate insurance, provide financial assurances including State indemnification, and transfer program records to become public records

Department may suspend or halt the program if it fails to comply with requirements, meet performance standards, or poses a risk to public health or the environment

Takes effect July 1, 2025 and automatically sunsets on June 30, 2028 (3-year pilot program)