MO HB1748

Authorizes the Clean Water Commission to designate publicly accessible water bodies as "distressed" based on scientific information including contaminant levels, public use frequency, hydrology, development levels, and downstream effects on other water bodies

Creates "heightened scrutiny" standard for distressed water bodies where permit applications are presumptively denied unless applicants demonstrate no detrimental impact or employ sufficient additional protective measures

Grants the Department of Natural Resources authority to require permits for on-site wastewater treatment facilities (septic systems, package plants, lagoons), order facilities to connect to existing sewer systems, and issue cease and desist orders for violations affecting distressed waters

Expands the Department of Health and Senior Services' investigation authority to allow proactive sewage inspections when violations are suspected, rather than only when violations are reported by an aggrieved party or adjacent landowner

Requires public hearings and approval by at least four commission members plus the DNR director before designating or removing a water body's distressed status