Opposed. The proposal changes lower the standard for every profession involved: OSE, Installer, and Operator. I request that WWWOOSSP reject any proposal to lower the qualifications or training requirements for the practice of design or site evaluations for conventional onsite wastewater disposal systems. Requirements should be strengthened to protect the professionals involved, the public, and the environment. At minimum, the requirements should be maintained at the current level. Under no circumstances should the requirements reduced below the current level.

There are plenty of qualified individuals already meeting the higher OSE standard as well as a continuing stream of university graduates entering the workforce with the required educational background to enter the workforce and gain the necessary experience to become an OSE. There are numerous OSEs, Certified Professional Soil Scientists, and Licensed Professional Soil Scientists that are qualified through training and professional experience to serve and protect the public and the natural resources of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Loosening requirements for oversight and professional responsibility are not in the consumer's (the public) best interests, nor does it benefit responsible professionals and their employers.