Relative to the adoption of ambient groundwater quality standards by the department of environmental services.
Impact
The proposed changes in SB123 aim to address existing inconsistencies in the legal language regarding the criteria for setting ambient groundwater quality standards. By clarifying the relationship between state maximum contaminant levels and federal health advisories, the bill intends to prevent situations where state standards could inadvertently be less protective than federal guidelines. The potential outcomes of this legislation include improved clarity for the department's regulatory practices and possibly reduced costs related to water treatment and site remediation for local, county, and state governments, as well as safeguarding public health.
Summary
Senate Bill 123 (SB123) seeks to amend RSA 485-C to empower the commissioner of the department of environmental services to establish ambient groundwater quality standards for regulated contaminants that pose a risk to human health or the environment. The bill stipulates that these standards will apply to all contaminants arising from human activities, while not affecting naturally occurring contaminants. Should state maximum contaminant levels exist, the ambient groundwater standards must align with them, or be more stringent if deemed necessary for adequate health protection across all life stages, including prenatal development.
Contention
Despite the intended benefits, the bill could still raise concerns among stakeholders regarding how the commissioner’s discretionary powers are utilized, particularly when it comes to adopting more stringent standards. Advocacy groups might argue that any reduction in regulatory stringency poses risks to public safety, especially in regions already facing contaminated water issues. The ability to set ambient standards more stringent than federal levels can be seen as both a safeguard and a point of contention, as it calls for a delicate balance between protecting public health and ensuring safe regulatory frameworks.