Relating to the production, sale, and use of certain agricultural products containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); creating a criminal offense.
Impact
The implications of SB886 are significant for both agricultural producers and environmental regulators in Texas. This bill proactively tightens regulations on the production and distribution of agricultural products, particularly those derived from sewage sludge, potentially leading to a reduction in the prevalence of PFAS in the state's agricultural products. As Texas has a substantial agricultural sector, the law could spark extensive changes in how fertilizers and soil amendments are sourced and applied. The bill sets specific concentration limits for various PFAS compounds, allowing for better monitoring and compliance, and aims to prevent contaminated products from reaching consumers.
Summary
SB886 addresses the critical issue of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in agricultural products by amending the Agriculture Code of Texas. The bill defines PFAS and modifies existing regulations concerning commercial fertilizers. One of its key provisions requires manufacturers of fertilizers and related products containing sewage sludge to conduct monthly independent analyses for PFAS concentrations and appropriately dispose of any products exceeding the established safety thresholds. The legislation aims to safeguard public health and environmental quality by reducing the permissible levels of PFAS in agricultural materials, thereby addressing growing concerns around these harmful substances in food production and land use.
Contention
While SB886 is a step forward in addressing environmental and public health concerns, it may also face opposition from some agricultural groups who argue that the stringent testing and reporting requirements impose excessive burdens on producers. Concerns could center around the cost and feasibility of frequent independent analyses, particularly for smaller farms or manufacturers with limited resources. Additionally, the legal implications of failing to comply with the testing requirements, which could lead to criminal offenses for violations, may be contentious among stakeholders. The potential economic impact of stricter regulations on the agricultural sector could become a focal point of debate as the bill moves through the legislature.
Identical
Relating to the production, sale, and use of certain agricultural products containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the production and regulation of hemp; providing an administrative penalty; requiring a permit to conduct certain research involving hemp; authorizing a fee; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the designation of fentanyl poisoning or fentanyl toxicity for purposes of the death certificate and to the criminal penalties for certain controlled substance offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the production, sale, and use of certain agricultural products containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); creating a criminal offense.
Requires DEP to study feasibility of using alternative water supply source when perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances exceed maximum contaminant level.
Requires DEP to study feasibility of using alternative water supply source when perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances exceed maximum contaminant level.
Requires DEP and Drinking Water Quality Institute to perform study concerning regulation and treatment of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Requires DEP and Drinking Water Quality Institute to perform study concerning regulation and treatment of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Requires DEP and Drinking Water Quality Institute to perform study concerning regulation and treatment of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.