This bill establishes a voluntary training and registration program for commercial applicators who use deicing materials for snow and ice removal, under the oversight of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The program aims to ensure that applicators are trained in effective methods that also protect water quality. The DEP is tasked with certifying third-party training providers, which may include community colleges and universities, and requires commercial applicators to complete training and pass an examination before they can register. Additionally, registered applicators must maintain records of their services and report annually to the DEP.
The bill also outlines liability protections for registered commercial applicators, stating they will not be held liable for damages related to snow or ice accumulation if they follow the training guidelines. However, these protections do not apply in cases of reckless conduct or failure to adhere to the training methods. The DEP is granted the authority to suspend or revoke registrations for violations of the bill's provisions or for false statements made in required documentation. The Commissioner of Environmental Protection is responsible for adopting necessary rules and regulations to implement the bill.