ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland senators are criticizing regulations proposed by the Maryland Department of the Environment that would require the use of best available technology for nitrogen removal septic systems in new construction near the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic Coastal Bays watershed.
The matter came up during debate Monday during a special session that has been called to address budget matters.
Sen. David Brinkley, R-Frederick, proposed an amendment to require legislative approval of the regulations. Brinkley says Gov. Martin O'Malley's administration is trying to bypass legislative supervision.The amendment failed 16-29. But Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, D-Calvert, says he believes it was inappropriate for thedepartment to issue regulations the Senate rejected two years ago.
He says the matter will be addressed by a legislative committee or in next year's session.
