The bill H.86 proposes the establishment of the Chloride Contamination Reduction Program under the Secretary of Natural Resources, aimed at training commercial and municipal salt applicators in best management practices for applying salt or salt alternatives. This initiative seeks to minimize the entry of these substances into Vermont's waters, thereby protecting water quality. The program will include education, training, and certification processes, with a focus on efficient application methods that ensure safety for pedestrians and vehicles while preventing environmental contamination. Additionally, certified applicators will be presumed compliant with water quality laws when following the established best practices.

The bill also includes provisions for monitoring chloride levels in state waters, particularly when contamination exceeds EPA standards, and mandates the mapping of salt storage facilities to improve management practices. It outlines the liability protections for certified applicators and establishes record-keeping requirements to ensure accountability. Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to align with the federal Clean Water Act and appropriates $250,000 for the program's implementation, with the intention of annual funding. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1258