The bill amends Chapter 46-32 of the General Laws, which pertains to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in drinking water, groundwater, and surface waters. It introduces an interim drinking water standard for PFAS contaminants, including PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, PFHpA, and PFDA, and sets monitoring requirements for public water supply systems. These systems, except transient non-community water systems, must monitor for PFAS and follow specific actions based on the levels detected. If PFAS levels exceed 20 parts per trillion (ppt), quarterly monitoring is required; if levels are at or below this standard, annual monitoring is mandated; and if PFAS are not detected, monitoring every two years is sufficient. The bill removes the previous requirement for water supply systems to provide alternative potable water if PFAS exceed 20 ppt and instead mandates that the Department of Health draft a consent agreement within 180 days of notification of exceedance to reduce PFAS levels. The director of the Department of Health is authorized to enforce these requirements, and violations are subject to penalties.

Additionally, the bill amends the "Toxic Packaging Reduction Act" in Chapter 23-18.13, prohibiting the sale of packaging containing intentionally introduced lead, cadmium, mercury, or hexavalent chromium, and sets a maximum concentration for these elements at 100 ppm. It also sets a new effective date of July 31, 2024, for the prohibition of food packages with intentionally introduced PFAS. The Department of Health is authorized to participate in a multi-state clearinghouse to assist with the act's requirements. The bill takes effect upon passage and aims to ensure that water supply systems implement treatment to reduce PFAS levels when they exceed the interim standard.

Statutes affected:
724  SUB A as amended: 23-18.13-4
724  SUB A: 23-18.13-4