Bill > H0086

This bill establishes the Chloride Contamination Reduction Program at the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources to address salt and salt alternative applications that can contaminate water sources. The program will require the Secretary of Natural Resources to create an education and certification system for commercial and municipal salt applicators, focusing on best management practices that minimize salt use while maintaining safe travel conditions. The program includes developing comprehensive definitions of salt and salt alternatives, establishing training requirements for applicators, and creating a certification process that provides limited liability protection for certified applicators who follow established guidelines. Key provisions include developing a record-keeping system for salt purchases and applications, establishing salt reduction targets, creating annual reporting requirements, and mandating mapping and improved storage practices for salt facilities. The bill also requires enhanced monitoring of chloride levels in surface waters when contamination exceeds Environmental Protection Agency standards and appropriates $250,000 in initial funding for a third-party vendor to administer the program. Importantly, certified salt applicators who follow the best management practices will be presumed to be in compliance with water quality laws and protected from liability, except in cases of gross negligence.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.86