Bill > H2409

This bill prohibits the burning of construction and demolition waste as biofuel in energy-generating facilities due to the potential environmental and health risks associated with toxic preservatives used in construction materials. Specifically, the bill adds two new sections to Chapter 111 of the General Laws that explicitly forbid energy-generating facilities from using construction or demolition waste as fuel, regardless of any existing laws or regulations that might previously have allowed such practices. The bill requires the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs to update regulations within 60 days of the Act's effective date to ensure compliance, with the authority to temporarily suspend or modify permitting proceedings and implement emergency regulations if necessary. The legislation emphasizes the potential dangers of burning materials treated with toxic substances like copper chromium arsenate, creosote, and pentachlorophenol, which could release harmful chemicals into the environment and surrounding communities when incinerated.