Bill > S2802

This bill addresses PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in Massachusetts by establishing comprehensive measures to protect agricultural lands, farmers, and wastewater treatment facilities. The legislation creates two new funds: the Agricultural PFAS Relief Fund, which will assist farmers in dealing with PFAS-related losses and costs, and the Agricultural Fertilizer Purchasing Fund, which will help farmers purchase fertilizer without PFAS. The bill prohibits the application of biosolids (treated sewage sludge) on land and bans the sale of fertilizers derived from biosolids. It requires the Department of Environmental Protection to conduct a comprehensive study of sludge disposal needs and develop a statewide master plan for sludge processing and disposal. The bill also provides legal protections for farmers by granting them immunity from civil liability for PFAS contamination outside their control, with exceptions for entities directly involved in PFAS production or distribution. Additionally, the legislation offers financial relief by waiving certain taxes on agricultural land removed from use due to PFAS contamination and providing reimbursement to municipalities for additional sludge disposal costs. The bill aims to comprehensively address PFAS contamination's impact on agriculture and public health, with most provisions to be implemented between 2027 and 2028.