Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD1604

Introduced
4/10/25  
Refer
4/10/25  
Engrossed
5/21/25  
Enrolled
5/22/25  

Caption

An Act to Protect Groundwater and Surface Waters from Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Landfill Leachate

Impact

If enacted, LD1604 would alter existing regulations related to wastewater discharges, compelling landfill operators to conduct quarterly testing for PFAS by an independent third party. This legislative measure represents a crucial step towards safeguarding public health and the environment by ensuring that toxic substances do not enter groundwater supplies. The requirement for publicly accessible testing results is expected to enhance community awareness and engagement with local environmental issues, highlighting the importance of keeping the public informed about potential health risks.

Summary

LD1604, titled 'An Act to Protect Groundwater and Surface Waters from Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances from Landfill Leachate', aims to address the environmental concerns associated with PFAS contamination from solid waste landfills. The legislation mandates that licensed wastewater dischargers maintain detailed records of leachate from landfills and prohibits the discharge of wastewater containing PFAS unless it meets specified standards established by the Department of Environmental Protection. The bill places a significant emphasis on both transparency and accountability regarding environmental management practices for landfills.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding LD1604 appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and public health officials, who recognize the need for stricter controls over PFAS and similar pollutants. However, there are concerns from some industry representatives about the potential regulatory burdens that could arise from these new requirements. This tension illustrates the broader conflict within environmental policy between the need for increased protection of natural resources and the economic implications for waste management firms

Contention

Key points of contention focus on the enforcement of the new regulations and the timeline established within the bill. The prohibition on discharging wastewater containing leachate collected from landfills could be seen as a significant shift in regulatory compliance, particularly with the deadline of June 1, 2026, for implementing the effluent limits. Observers note that while the intent of the legislation is to enhance environmental safeguards, the effectiveness of its implementation and the adequate monitoring of compliance will be essential for achieving its goals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1488

An Act to Expand Testing for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances to Private Drinking Water Wells

ME LD188

An Act to Require the Department of Environmental Protection to Pay for Certain Water Tests for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

ME LD1537

An Act to Amend the Laws Relating to the Prevention of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Pollution

ME LD73

An Act to Require Bottled Water Companies to Monitor for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

ME LD217

An Act to Support Manufacturers Whose Products Contain Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

ME LD2135

Resolve, Regarding the Operation and Future Capacity of State-owned Landfills

ME LD1214

An Act to Clarify the Laws to Combat Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Contamination

ME LD132

An Act to Require Health Insurance Carriers to Provide Coverage for Blood Testing for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

ME LD242

An Act to Clarify That Animal Health Products Are Exempt from the Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Reporting Law

ME LD304

An Act to Establish Statewide Standards for Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances

Similar Bills

CA AB958

Product safety: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

CA AB841

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US SB466

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CA SB903

Environmental health: product safety: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

CA SB1056

Drinking water: testing: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.

CA SB1266

Product safety: bisphenol.

US HB6805

PFAS Action Act of 2023

CA AB246

Product safety: menstrual products: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.