Bill > SB3101

This bill establishes new standards for testing and applying biosolids, which are nutrient-rich materials from treated sewage, to land in Illinois to address concerns about perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of chemicals known to persist in the environment and pose health risks. Facilities intending to spread biosolids on farms must now test them for PFAS at least annually, submitting results to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at least 14 days before application. For biosolids designated as "Exceptional Quality" (EQ), which are considered higher quality, this testing and submission must be done quarterly. The bill sets specific conditions for land application based on the detected PFAS concentrations: biosolids with low PFAS levels can be applied at normal rates after informing the landowner; those with "elevated PFAS concentrations" have restrictions, requiring reduced application rates, alternative risk mitigation plans, or source investigation; and biosolids with "industrially impacted PFAS concentrations" are prohibited from land application and require alternative disposal and source reduction plans. Facilities must also provide written notification to landowners about PFAS levels and any application restrictions, and retain records for five years. The EPA is required to propose, and the Pollution Control Board to adopt, rules to implement these new standards, which will take effect immediately.