The bill, S. 1009, is a joint resolution introduced in the South Carolina Senate that directs the Department of Environmental Services to conduct an investigation into the contamination of Lake Wateree and the Catawba-Wateree River basin due to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The investigation aims to determine the origin of PCB usage in the area and identify responsible parties, including the potential involvement of Duke Energy and its predecessors. The Department is authorized to collaborate with the Office of Inspector General to assist in this investigation.

The resolution mandates that the Department of Environmental Services report its findings to the Governor, the General Assembly, the Office of Regulatory Staff, and the Public Service Commission by December 31, 2026. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.