The bill S.29 aims to establish the Chloride Contamination Reduction Program under the Secretary of Natural Resources, focusing on training commercial and municipal salt applicators in best management practices for applying salt and salt alternatives. This initiative is designed to minimize the environmental impact of salt application, particularly in preventing chloride contamination in the state's waters. The program will include education, training, and certification processes, with a presumption of compliance with water quality laws for certified applicators who follow the established best practices. Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary to monitor chloride levels in contaminated waters and develop a publicly accessible database for road salt applications.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of definitions related to salt application, the creation of a certification process for salt applicators, and the implementation of record-keeping requirements. The Secretary of Natural Resources is also tasked with mapping salt storage facilities and ensuring they adhere to best management practices to prevent runoff. The bill includes appropriations of $250,000 for the program's administration and outlines the effective date of the act upon passage. Furthermore, it amends existing laws to align with the new program and enhance monitoring of chloride levels in surface waters.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1258