The bill H.422, introduced by Representatives Masland, Branagan, Holcombe, and Olson, aims to enhance groundwater monitoring at sites contaminated by hazardous materials. It mandates that the Secretary of Natural Resources require groundwater samples to be tested at the State Agricultural and Environmental Laboratory (State Laboratory) unless the laboratory is unable to perform the necessary tests or if using a private laboratory would significantly reduce costs for the State or the site owner. The bill emphasizes the importance of high-quality laboratory analysis in protecting public and private water supplies and ensuring that monitoring costs remain manageable, particularly when a post-closure fund is available for such expenses.

The bill includes several findings that underscore the necessity of groundwater testing, highlighting that timely and accurate data benefits both the State and affected water users. It amends current law by adding a new section that specifies the conditions under which groundwater testing must occur at the State Laboratory, thereby reinforcing the State's commitment to affordable and effective monitoring of contaminated sites. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-6608