The bill H.146 proposes a significant restructuring of agricultural water quality management in Vermont by transferring regulatory authority from the Secretary of Agriculture, Food and Markets to the Secretary of Natural Resources. It introduces a new subchapter titled "Agricultural Water Quality," which aims to prevent agricultural waste from contaminating groundwater and state waters, aligning with the federal Clean Water Act. The bill establishes an Agricultural Water Quality Special Fund, mandates inspections of animal feeding operations, and requires permits for large, medium, and small Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) starting January 1, 2029. It also outlines criteria for designating small Animal Feeding Operations (AFOs) as small CAFOs based on their pollution contributions and emphasizes the need for compliance with Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs).

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of Vermont's agricultural and environmental laws, including the repeal of certain regulatory authorities and the establishment of new requirements for nutrient management and agricultural facility construction to prevent runoff. It introduces new regulations for manure application, particularly during winter months, and mandates water quality training for CAFO and AFO operators. The bill also establishes a transition plan for enforcement actions, requiring the transfer of pending actions to the Secretary of Natural Resources by July 1, 2027, and includes provisions for financial assistance to help farmers meet new standards. Overall, the bill aims to enhance agricultural practices while protecting water quality and public health in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1259, 10-1263, 10-1264(d), 10-1264, 10-8003(d), 10-8003, 6-366, 6-563, 6-918(b), 6-918, 10-905b, 10-1266b(d), 10-1266b, 10-1389b, 10-1446(b)(7), 10-1446, 10-1446(b), 10-1671(8), 10-1671, 10-1679(c), 10-1679, 10-6001(3)(E), 10-6001, 10-6001(3), 10-6001(42), 24-4413(d)(1), 24-4413, 24-4413(d), 32-3752(5)(D), 32-3752, 32-3752(5), 32-3756(i), 32-3756, 32-3758(e), 32-3758, 3-2822(j), 3-2822