Committee backs tighter biosolids standards, delays compliance until 2028

Representative Shoaff told the committee that HB 1245 seeks to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus runoff from biosolids, promote higher treatment standards for Class AA biosolids and strengthen scientific oversight and transparency. He said the bill would ‘‘protect our environment and important waterways’’ by reducing nutrient loads.

An amendment cleaned up federal references, clarified an existing compost exemption, and provided additional transition time for industry compliance until July 1, 2028. Public Trust for Conservation’s John November waved in support; no opponents spoke at the committee hearing. Representative Shoaff waived closing and the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably with committee substitute, 18-0.

The committee discussion framed the bill as strengthening oversight and providing a regulatory timeline. The amendment’s 2028 transition date and the compost exemption were the key clarifications committee members noted.