Bill > S05759

This bill addresses the management of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in biosolids through several key provisions. It establishes a five-year moratorium on the land application of biosolids from wastewater treatment plants and related materials, prohibiting their use as fertilizers, soil amendments, or on agricultural and non-crop lands. The bill requires comprehensive testing and reporting of PFAS levels in soil, drinking water wells, and surface water near lands where biosolids have been applied, with testing to be conducted quarterly for one year. A publicly accessible database will be created to track these test results. Additionally, the bill establishes a PFAS Agricultural Response Program to assist farms found to have PFAS contamination exceeding regulatory standards, providing grants for income supplementation, enterprise budget planning, equipment purchases, and transitional support. A New York State Biosolids Task Force will be created to evaluate risks and benefits of various biosolids disposal methods, conduct research, hold public hearings, and produce interim and final reports on PFAS contamination and potential management strategies. The bill also creates an Agricultural PFAS Response Fund to support these initiatives, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to addressing PFAS contamination in agricultural settings.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5759