Bill > H0425

This bill requires the Secretary of Natural Resources to develop and submit a comprehensive regional management plan for septage, sludge, and biosolids by January 15, 2025. The bill first defines key terms like septage (liquid and solid materials pumped from septic systems), sludge (waste materials from wastewater treatment), and biosolids (treated sewage waste), and introduces the concept of PFAS (a class of fluorinated chemicals). The proposed plan must address several critical aspects, including establishing multi-municipality districts for waste management, identifying and assessing existing wastewater treatment facilities as potential regional acceptance sites, identifying administrative and operational barriers, facilitating intermunicipal agreements, exploring public-private partnerships for waste management, developing strategies for handling contaminants like PFAS, and proposing service fee structures. Before submitting the plan to the General Assembly, the Secretary must provide a 30-day public comment period, ensuring transparency and stakeholder input. The bill aims to create a more efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible approach to managing septage, sludge, and biosolids at a regional level, with the ultimate goal of reducing environmental and public health risks. The proposed plan will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.425