Proposed rules relating to the development of numerical groundwater quality standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources.
Impact
If enacted, SB1079 is expected to facilitate the implementation of necessary regulations governing PFAS concentrations, which are critical to public health and environmental safety. The bill aims to provide a framework for the DNR to establish permanent rules concerning these substances, thus ensuring that Wisconsin's groundwater remains safe for consumption and ecological balance. The introduction of numerical groundwater quality standards is a proactive response to growing concerns about the health risks associated with PFAS exposure, which has garnered attention from various sectors, including health advocates and environmental organizations.
Summary
Senate Bill 1079 is a legislative proposal designed to address groundwater quality standards specifically concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Introduced on March 6, 2024, by Senators Cowles, Wimberger, and Cabral-Guevara, along with Representatives Mursau, O'Connor, and Steffen, the bill seeks to authorize the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to continue with the rule-making process for establishing numerical standards aimed at minimizing the concentration of these contaminants in groundwater. This follows a notification by the DNR regarding a final economic impact analysis (EIA) indicating the proposed rule would exceed significant cost thresholds, which could hinder its implementation without legislative approval.
Contention
The bill may face scrutiny regarding the economic implications of its enforcement. Since the EIA indicated that the proposed groundwater quality rule challenges the $10 million threshold for compliance costs, there is potential for debate on the balance between environmental protection and economic feasibility. Supporters may argue that the need for clean water justifies the costs, while opponents could express concerns over the financial burden it places on local governments and businesses. The complexity of managing these regulations could also lead to discussions about the adequacy of existing frameworks to cope with emerging pollutants like PFAS.
Proposed rules relating to the development of numerical groundwater quality standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources.
Creating an exemption to certain requirements for rules promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources relating to groundwater protection standards for PFAS.
Creating an exemption to certain requirements for rules promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources relating to groundwater protection standards for PFAS.
Environment and natural resources; creating the Oklahoma PFAS Act; requiring promulgation of rules and regulations by the Department of Environmental Quality on PFAS waste; emergency.
Regulating and addressing PFAS, extending the time limit for emergency rule procedures, providing an exemption from rule-making procedures and emergency rule procedures, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Permits for constructing or enlarging artificial water bodies for the purpose of nonmetallic mining reclamation and modifying administrative rules promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources.