In a recent session of the Maryland General Assembly's Environment and Transportation Committee, lawmakers discussed House Bill 909, a significant piece of legislation aimed at addressing the health risks associated with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in sewage sludge. This bill seeks to regulate the application of biosolids—treated sewage sludge used as fertilizer on farmland—by requiring testing for PFAS contamination and establishing limits on acceptable levels.

The urgency of this bill stems from growing concerns about the health impacts of PFAS, which have been linked to various cancers and other serious health issues. Advocates highlighted that PFAS can enter the food chain through crops fertilized with contaminated biosolids, potentially affecting not only agricultural products but also local water supplies. The bill aims to mitigate these risks by ensuring that biosolids are tested before being applied to land, thereby protecting both public health and the environment.

During the meeting, Brent Wallace from the Upper Potomac Riverkeeper emphasized the need for stringent PFAS limits, noting that many farmers are unaware of the potential contamination in their soil and water. He shared a recent experience collecting samples from a farmer who expressed concern about PFAS in his well water and its implications for his crops. Wallace urged the committee to support the bill, stating that it would help stop a significant source of PFAS pollution in Maryland.

Kennedy Fichtel from the Chesapeake Legal Alliance echoed these sentiments, arguing that the long-term application of PFAS-contaminated biosolids poses a serious risk to public health, particularly in rural communities. He called for Maryland to take decisive action based on established science regarding the dangers of PFAS exposure.

The committee also heard from Peter Thomas, who operates waste gasification systems that process sewage sludge without producing PFAS. He advocated for alternative methods of handling biosolids, such as gasification, which can produce a safe byproduct that can be used on farms.

As discussions progressed, committee members raised questions about the implications of the bill, particularly regarding the disposal of biosolids if land application is restricted. Currently, many facilities transport their biosolids out of state or send them to landfills, where PFAS can still pose environmental risks.

The committee is working towards amendments that would provide wastewater treatment plants with additional time to comply with the new regulations, recognizing the need for a balanced approach that protects public health while allowing for practical implementation.

As Maryland continues to grapple with the challenges posed by PFAS, House Bill 909 represents a critical step towards safeguarding the health of residents and the environment. The committee's ongoing discussions will shape the future of biosolid management in the state, with the potential for significant impacts on agricultural practices and public health.