Committee finds S218 favorable after review of voluntary ANR salt-applicator training program

The Ways & Means committee reviewed S218 on April 2, hearing from Legislative Council and the Joint Fiscal Office about a voluntary training and certification program the bill would establish at the Agency of Natural Resources to reduce chloride contamination of state waters.

Michael Grady of Legislative Council told the committee the bill is largely similar to last year's H86 and would create a voluntary program for commercial salt applicators. Grady said ANR would adopt best management practices (BMPs) for salt and salt alternatives, offer training once BMPs are in rule, and certify applicators for two-year terms. "The purpose of this bill is to address water quality impairments caused by chloride," Grady said, noting nine waters in the state currently do not meet chloride water-quality standards.

Under the bill as explained to the committee, certified commercial applicators who complete the training would receive an affirmative defense against claims for damages resulting from hazards caused by snow or ice where the damages were due solely to…