An Act relative to combined sewer overflows
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill addresses combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in Massachusetts, which occur when stormwater and sewage mix and are discharged into waterways. The bill aims to reduce the amount of pollutants entering rivers and streams by requiring municipalities to implement strategies to minimize CSOs. It seeks to improve water quality and protect public health by addressing a persistent environmental issue.
Key provisions
- Requires municipalities with combined sewer systems to develop and implement CSO reduction plans.
- Promotes the use of green infrastructure techniques to manage stormwater.
- Expands the definition of ‘combined sewer’ to include systems that discharge pollutants.
- Directs the Department of Environmental Protection to provide technical assistance to municipalities.
- Establishes a reporting requirement for municipalities regarding CSO reduction efforts.
- Supports the use of funding for CSO reduction projects.
- Encourages the use of source control measures to reduce pollutants entering the sewer system.
- Requires municipalities to prioritize CSO reduction projects.
Who is affected
- Municipalities in Massachusetts
- Residents of Massachusetts
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Department of Environmental Protection
- Waterway ecosystems
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
2 on record
Primary sponsor
Patricia D. Jehlen
Cosponsor
Patricia D. Jehlen
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