The Department is initiating rule development to more effectively and efficiently address bacteria impairments using modern scientific identification and investigation techniques. Specifically, the Department is initiating rulemaking to 1) revise the fecal indicator bacteria surface water quality criteria in Chapter 62-302, F.A.C., to reflect the current science, 2) revise the associated impaired water assessment methodologies in Chapter 62-303, F.A.C., to implement the updated fecal indicator bacteria criteria, 3) establish in Rule 62-304.900, F.A.C., a methodology that derives specific fecal indicator bacteria Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) pollutant reductions for any individual surface water segment based on the data used to verify the impairment of the waterbody, and 4) set forth restoration expectations by Rule that implement fecal indicator bacteria TMDLs. The Department intends to convene a technical advisory committee (TAC) to provide technical assistance to the Department in developing the proposed rules. The Department will provide public notice of TAC meetings in advance of these meetings being scheduled.