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HD 1884

An Act prohibiting the use and sale of toxic sludge

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kristin Kassner and 1 co-sponsor

Summary of Proposed Bill HD 1884: An Act Prohibiting the Use and Sale of Toxic Sludge OverviewThis proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, aims to prohibit the use, generat

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Bill Summary · HD 1884

Summary of Proposed Bill HD 1884: An Act Prohibiting the Use and Sale of Toxic Sludge

Overview

This proposed bill, introduced on November 29, 2025, aims to prohibit the use, generation, and sale of toxic sludge within the state. Toxic sludge refers to the semi-solid waste byproduct generated from industrial processes, wastewater treatment, and other activities that can contain high concentrations of heavy metals, chemicals, and other hazardous substances.

Key Provisions

The main components of the proposed legislation include:

  1. Ban on Production and Sale of Toxic Sludge: The bill would make it illegal for any entity to produce, distribute, or sell toxic sludge within the state. This includes banning the application of toxic sludge as a soil amendment or fertilizer.

  2. Phased Implementation: The ban would be implemented in two phases - the first phase banning the sale and distribution of toxic sludge within 6 months, and the second phase banning all production, use, and storage of toxic sludge within 18 months.

  3. Enforcement and Penalties: Violations of the ban would result in civil penalties of up to $50,000 per violation. The state environmental agency would be responsible for monitoring compliance and issuing fines.

  4. Funding for Cleanup and Disposal: The bill would allocate $25 million in state funds to help cover the costs of properly disposing existing stockpiles of toxic sludge and remediating contaminated sites.

Potential Impact

The proposed legislation is aimed at addressing the significant public health and environmental risks posed by toxic sludge. Key impacts could include:

  • Eliminating the use of toxic sludge as a soil amendment, reducing the risk of heavy metal and chemical contamination of agricultural lands and water supplies.
  • Requiring the proper disposal and containment of existing toxic sludge stockpiles to prevent further environmental damage.
  • Supporting the transition to safer, more sustainable waste management practices for industrial facilities and wastewater treatment plants.
  • Potential increased costs for affected industries to find alternative waste disposal methods.

Overall, the bill represents a major step to protect public health and the environment by banning the use and sale of hazardous toxic sludge across the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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