Bill > H109

This bill addresses PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in agriculture by establishing several key protections and support mechanisms for farmers. First, the bill provides legal immunity for farmers against lawsuits related to PFAS contamination resulting from standard agricultural practices. It creates two new funds: the Agricultural PFAS Relief Fund, which will support farmers impacted by PFAS contamination through testing, adaptation costs, health support, and remediation efforts, and the Agricultural Fertilizer Purchasing Fund, which will help commercial farmers cover additional costs of fertilizer that does not contain PFAS. The legislation also prohibits the application of biosolids (sewage sludge) on agricultural land and restricts the sale of fertilizers and soil amendments containing measurable PFAS. Additionally, manufacturers of fertilizers and soil amendments will be required to test for PFAS and report their findings to the Department of Environmental Protection. The bill mandates that the state develop a comprehensive statewide master plan for sludge management by December 31, 2026, and establishes a grant program to help municipalities research and implement technologies to reduce sludge volume and toxicity. Municipalities will also be reimbursed for additional sludge disposal costs incurred as a result of these new regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H109