Relative to greywater recycling
This legislation is expected to directly affect local regulations by standardizing the processes for greywater recycling across different municipalities. The bill stipulates that it applies to multifamily buildings using less than 3,000 gallons of water per day and enforces compliance with local ordinances. While fostering a sustainable approach toward water usage, it could also lead to reduced water costs for consumers and an increased water supply during drought periods. Provisions for local boards of health to enforce these guidelines further align public health objectives with environmental goals.
House Bill 280 aims to regulate the recycling of greywater in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, specifically targeting single-family and multifamily residential buildings. The bill presents a framework for guidelines that assist building owners in reusing greywater for toilet flushing and subsurface irrigation. It emphasizes the importance of water conservation and aims to address issues related to effective water supply management, public health, and maintenance of water quality. The proposed regulations mandate that greywater systems installed in new multifamily construction must follow specific standards outlined in the Uniform State Plumbing Code.
While the bill has support due to its potential environmental benefits, there are points of contention regarding its implementation and oversight. Opponents might raise concerns about the additional regulatory burden imposed on local governments and the possible costs associated with compliance. Moreover, there are fears that inadequate infrastructure to handle greywater systems could lead to public health risks, particularly if local boards of health face resource constraints, which may hinder proper enforcement and oversight of these new requirements.