Bill H.86 proposes the establishment of the Chloride Contamination Reduction Program under the Agency of Natural Resources, aimed at training commercial and municipal salt applicators in best management practices for the application of salt and salt alternatives. The bill defines key terms related to salt application and outlines the responsibilities of the Secretary of Natural Resources in developing an educational program that includes efficiency measures, standards for application, and record-keeping requirements. It also provides a presumption of compliance with water quality laws for certified applicators who follow these best practices, and establishes limited liability protections for them in case of hazards caused by snow or ice.

Additionally, the bill mandates the mapping of salt storage facilities and the implementation of best management practices to prevent runoff into surface and groundwater. It includes provisions for monitoring chloride levels in contaminated waters and requires the Secretary to report annually on the impacts of salt usage. The bill also appropriates $250,000 for the program's administration and sets a timeline for the adoption of best management practices by November 1, 2026, with implementation starting January 1, 2027. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1258