1. (a) The state department shall:

   1. (1) study the use of:

      1. (A) recirculation media filters;
      2. (B) aeration treatment units;
      3. (C) drip irrigation;
      4. (D) gravelless trenches; and

      5. (E) new technologies;

         for residential onsite sewage systems that will cause systems to perform satisfactorily as alternatives to currently operating systems that do not perform satisfactorily because of soil characteristics, lot sizes, topographical conditions, or high water tables; and

   2. (2) take all actions necessary to develop plans and specifications for use of the technologies listed in subdivision (1) in residential onsite sewage systems.

2. (b) The executive board shall adopt reasonable rules under IC 4-22-2 to:

   1. (1) promulgate the plans and specifications developed under subsection (a); and

   2. (2) allow for the issuance of operating permits for:

      1. (A) residential onsite sewage systems that are installed in compliance with the plans and specifications promulgated under subdivision (1); and
      2. (B) onsite residential sewage discharging disposal systems in a county that complies with IC 13-18-12-9 .

As added by P.L.172-2002, SEC.6. Amended by P.L.104-2022, SEC.99; P.L.56-2023, SEC.146; P.L.160-2024, SEC.1; P.L.1-2025, SEC.183.