Iowa House Bill HF145

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

A bill for an act requiring testing for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in sewage sludge and other residual materials at wastewater treatment plants, and making penalties applicable.

Impact

The implications of HF145 are significant for both environmental protection and regulatory compliance in Iowa. With stricter testing and disposal regulations, wastewater treatment facilities will need to implement more robust monitoring and management practices. This shift reflects a growing concern over the environmental impact of PFAS, commonly found in various consumer products and industrial processes, as persistent contaminants that can adversely affect water quality and public health.

Summary

House File 145 requires wastewater treatment plants to conduct tests for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in sewage sludge and other residual materials intended for land application. Should testing reveal any amount of these substances, the bill mandates that counties or state-issued permits will prohibit the land application of such sewage sludge on agronomic lands, in areas with drainage tiles, in locations that drain into state waters, or within designated floodplain areas. This legislative move aims to safeguard public health and environmental integrity by restricting potentially hazardous materials from entering agricultural or sensitive ecological areas.

Contention

Debate surrounding HF145 may arise over its potential economic impacts on local governments and farmers. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect public health and the environment from the dangers of PFAS contamination. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential for increased costs and regulatory burdens on local governments and the agricultural sector, especially if testing and enforcement lead to significant operational changes or financial liabilities. Overall, the balance between safeguarding public health and minimizing economic impact will be a central point of contention in the discussions surrounding this bill.