Bill > SB2004

This bill is designed to prevent the contamination of clean soil with "forever chemicals" (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS) in Mississippi by implementing several key restrictions and requirements. The legislation prohibits the Mississippi Air and Water Pollution Control Commission from issuing new licenses for spreading septage and requires comprehensive testing of sludge and sludge-derived compost for PFAS before land application. It mandates that any sludge or compost must be tested at least annually, and cannot exceed established screening levels for beneficial use. The bill further restricts the land application, sale, and distribution of sludge, compost, and agricultural products from areas where septage has been applied, with some specific exceptions for certain agricultural residuals. The commission is also required to develop a plan to completely prohibit land application of septage, including studying treatment capacity and potential funding mechanisms for alternative disposal methods. Importantly, the bill gives the commission the authority to require wastewater discharge licensees to sample and report PFAS levels in their effluent, and allows for license revocation if PFAS levels exceed acceptable amounts. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to prepare for the new regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2004.xml