The bill H.146 proposes a significant restructuring of agricultural water quality management in Vermont by transferring 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, in line with the federal Clean Water Act. The bill establishes the Agricultural Water Quality Special Fund to support these initiatives and mandates inspections of farms based on their classification and environmental impact. It also requires that no concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) can operate without a permit issued by the Secretary after January 1, 2029, and outlines compliance requirements to protect water quality.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the management of manure application, emphasizing the timing and conditions under which it can occur, and allows for exemptions under specific circumstances. It repeals several existing regulations related to the responsibilities of the Secretary of Agriculture and introduces new language that focuses on education and technical assistance for farmers. The bill also sets a timeline for the transition of authority, with a full implementation date of July 1, 2027, and mandates a report on necessary appropriations and staffing by January 1, 2026. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance water quality protection measures while streamlining regulatory processes related to agricultural practices.

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