HB 3655
Directs the Department of Environmental Quality to develop a program for examination and certification of operators of lagoon wastewater treatment systems.
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Support
100%
Oppose
0%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill directs the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to create a program for testing and certifying individuals who operate lagoon wastewater treatment systems. The program will involve an examination focused on the specific knowledge needed to manage these systems. The DEQ can contract with a third party to develop the exam, and will regularly review and update the content to ensure it remains relevant.
Key provisions
- The DEQ must develop an examination and certification program for lagoon operators.
- The examination will cover topics relevant to lagoon wastewater treatment system operation.
- Individuals with one year of experience or meeting specific education/experience requirements can become certified.
- The DEQ will provide examination results to applicants.
- The DEQ will regularly review and update the examination content.
Who is affected
- Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
- Wastewater lagoon operators
- Individuals seeking to operate wastewater lagoons
- Businesses that operate lagoon wastewater treatment systems
- The public (through improved lagoon management)
Notable changes
- Establishes a formal certification process for lagoon wastewater treatment operators.
- Requires the DEQ to regularly update examination content.
- Allows the DEQ to contract with a third party for exam development.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
E. Werner Reschke
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of House Bill 3655 believe the bill will benefit operators, systems, and rate-payers in the industry by establishing a fairer examination and certification process for lagoon system operators. They emphasize the need for a tailored certification process to address poor testing criteria, high failure rates, and related costs, as well as unique challenges faced by small cities like Oregon's. Proponents argue that separating certification tests for lagoon and mechanical system operators would allow them to demonstrate expertise in their respective areas, generate additional revenue for regulatory agencies, and ultimately improve training, regulatory compliance, and workforce development in the industry.
Source: Testimony Summaries
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