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S 56

An Act protecting our soil and farms from PFAS contamination

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jo Comerford and 9 co-sponsors

S 56 restricts PFAS contamination in Massachusetts agricultural soil through standards on biosolids, irrigation water, and farm inputs to protect food crops and groundwater.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2802
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Bill Summary · S 56

Legislative bill overview

S 56 establishes protections for Massachusetts agricultural land and soil from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination. The bill creates regulatory frameworks and standards to prevent PFAS from entering farmland through various sources, including biosolids application, irrigation water, and contaminated inputs. It represents a targeted environmental health measure addressing "forever chemicals" that persist in soil and can accumulate in food crops.

Why is this important

PFAS are synthetic chemicals linked to serious health effects including liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune suppression. Once in soil, PFAS persist indefinitely and can migrate into groundwater and food crops, creating long-term exposure pathways. Massachusetts farms face particular risk from biosolids (treated sewage sludge) application and contaminated water sources, making targeted soil protection legislation a practical public health measure.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Biosolids producers, wastewater treatment facilities, and agricultural input manufacturers may face significant testing and remediation expenses to meet new PFAS standards
  • Federal regulatory overlap: Unclear coordination with EPA standards; states moving faster than federal action may create compliance confusion and competitive disadvantages for farmers near state borders
  • Feasibility of standards: Determining appropriate PFAS thresholds for soil and defining remediation requirements may be technically challenging and contentious among agricultural and environmental stakeholders

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

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