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House approves well‑water quality bill after floor fight over disclosure rules
Summary
Lawmakers passed HB 7248 to clarify local health directors’ ability to coordinate with DEEP on well‑water tests, but an amendment to remove a requirement that disclosures be 'approved by the commissioner' failed after sharp debate from members representing affected towns.
The House passed HB 7248, a Public Health Committee bill that updates how local health authorities handle well‑water testing and interagency disclosure. Sponsors said the change will allow local health directors to use updated policies and procedures to address cross‑connection risks and share well‑quality information with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and other agencies where necessary. The bill’s floor debate focused on disclosure mechanics and community experience with contaminated aquifers.
Representative McCarthy Vahey described the need to bring manual guidance up to date: cross‑connection manuals and regulations…
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