[§342D-50.5]  Treated or raw sewage; prohibition.  (a)  Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, no person, including any public body, shall discharge any treated or raw sewage into state waters after December 31, 2026; provided that this section shall not apply to a sewage treatment plant that:

     (1)  Utilizes sewage to produce clean energy pursuant to section 196-10.5; and

     (2)  Is in compliance with this chapter, rules adopted pursuant to this chapter, or a permit or variance issued by the director.

     (b)  Nothing in this section shall be construed to:

     (1)  Prohibit the use of reclaimed or recycled water for a beneficial purpose as provided by law; or

     (2)  Allow the discharge of treated or raw sewage into state waters in violation of any federal statute, rule, or regulation. [L 2016, c 248, §1]