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SB 60

AN ACT REQUIRING THE TESTING FOR PFAS WHENEVER A WASTE-TO-ENERGY PLANT APPLIES FOR EXPANSION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Somers

Connecticut SB 60 requires waste-to-energy plants to test for persistent PFAS chemicals before expanding operations to protect community environmental health.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Environment
#chemicals #resourcesrecoveryfacilities #soiltesting
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Bill Summary · SB 60

Legislative bill overview

SB 60 mandates that waste-to-energy (WTE) plants must conduct testing for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) whenever they apply for facility expansion. The bill requires this testing as a condition of the expansion permitting process, creating a regulatory checkpoint for these "forever chemicals" before plants can grow their operations.

Why is this important

PFAS are persistent synthetic chemicals found in many consumer products that accumulate in the environment and human bodies, with links to health concerns including liver damage and immune suppression. Waste-to-energy plants can concentrate and potentially release PFAS during incineration, so testing requirements before expansion could prevent increased contamination in communities near these facilities and inform public health decisions about facility growth.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry burden vs. public safety: WTE operators may argue expansion testing adds costly compliance requirements, while environmental advocates contend this is necessary precaution for chemicals with documented persistence
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what PFAS testing standards apply, remediation thresholds, or what happens if high levels are detected—raising questions about enforceability
  • Timing and existing plants: Unclear whether the requirement applies only to new expansions or to existing facilities, and whether currently operating plants face the same scrutiny despite their ongoing operations

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

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