Bill > H1046

This bill addresses the issue of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in Massachusetts waterways by establishing a comprehensive plan to eliminate these discharges by December 31, 2050. The bill first defines key terms, including "Combined Sewer System" (a single-pipe wastewater system that carries both sanitary and stormwater waste) and "Combined Sewer Overflow" (discharge from such a system into state waters before treatment). It mandates that any public or private entity operating a combined sewer system must completely stop discharging combined sewage into Massachusetts waterways by the 2050 deadline. To ensure progress, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is required to develop interim metrics and benchmarks within six months of the bill's enactment, which will include specific reduction targets for CSO discharges and establish reporting requirements for system operators. The EEA must also provide annual public reports to the state legislature detailing progress towards eliminating CSOs, highlighting compliance with interim metrics and addressing any implementation challenges. This legislation aims to significantly improve water quality and environmental health by systematically phasing out these problematic wastewater discharges.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1046