Subcommittee unanimously backs substitute to block risky deep-injection bioslurry projects on Eastern Shore
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Summary
The subcommittee adopted a substitute for House Bill 1381 to give DEQ standing to oppose federal permits for deep injection of bioslurry in the Eastern Shore sole-source aquifer area; supporters stressed groundwater protection and the substitute passed 8–0.
House Bill 1381 (substitute) would create statutory language designed to prevent deep injection of bioslurry — including proposals to inject poultry-waste slurry underground — in areas that could threaten Virginia's Eastern Shore sole-source aquifer. Sponsor Delegate Bloxham said the substitute would give DEQ standing to oppose a federal permit and create a backstop consistent with the state's groundwater management protections.
Jay Ford of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Cherrystone Aquafarms and other Eastern Shore stakeholders testified in support, describing the Eastern Shore as a sole-source aquifer area where drinking water comes from a single groundwater source. Supporters argued the substitute would provide permanent statutory protection and prevent a federal permit from moving forward in conflict with state law.
The substitute was adopted in committee and the clerk recorded an 8–0 report vote. The bill will advance to the next stage with the substitute language included.
