A bill that would eliminate a requirement that small campgrounds maintain their own dumping stations has passed the state Assembly.

North Country Assemblywoman Addie Russell, a Democrat from Theresa, calls it a victory for small businesses and area tourism.

The bill would allow campgrounds with 15 or fewer campsites to provide campers with a list of nearby dumping stations to dispose of their sewage as opposed to requiring the campgrounds to install dumping stations, according to a statement from the assemblywoman’s office.

“Removing the dumping station requirement will help small campgrounds keep costs under control, allowing them to offer their grounds to campers at a reasonable rate,” Russell said. “This commonsense measure is a win-win scenario that’s good for businesses and good for working families looking for affordable recreation options.” Tourism is one of the biggest industries in the North Country, especially in the Thousand Islands region, which generates $433 million annually, and supported more than 8,300 jobs in 2008, according to tourism authorities.

“This bill aims to protect a vital sector of our local economy by making state requirements more sensible,” Russell said.

The bill would allow campgrounds to provide campers with a list of at least three dumping stations within a 30-mile radius of the campground. The list may include private dumping stations if the private facility gives the campground authorization.

To alleviate any environmental concerns, the campgrounds that do not have dumping stations are required to inspect each campsite upon the arrival and exit of a camper and at least once per week while the campsite is occupied.