Bill > S615

This bill addresses liability protection for property owners and operators involved in hazardous waste site cleanups under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 21E. Specifically, the bill provides that if the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) conducts an audit of response actions at a site and finds either no violations or violations that were promptly corrected, the eligible person shall be deemed to have no liability for any releases at previously unidentified properties. The bill prevents the DEP from taking further action against such a person and prohibits the department from promulgating new regulations related to this provision. Additionally, the bill retroactively applies this protection, stating that no person shall be liable for substantial release migration at previously unidentified properties if the DEP had previously performed an audit and determined that a permanent solution or remedy operations status was achieved, or if any identified violations were promptly corrected. The legislation aims to provide clarity and protection for property owners who have responsibly addressed environmental cleanup requirements, limiting the potential for extended or future liability after a site has been deemed remediated.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S615