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Bill

Bill

SB 6163

Concerning biosolids.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Hasegawa and 4 co-sponsors

SB 6163 establishes stricter Washington State standards for biosolids land application to limit chemical and pathogen contamination in soils and food production areas.

By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
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Bill Summary · SB 6163

Legislative bill overview

SB 6163 regulates the land application of biosolids (treated sewage sludge) in Washington State by establishing stricter standards, monitoring requirements, and restrictions on where biosolids can be applied. The bill aims to protect public health and environmental quality by limiting contamination risks from persistent chemicals and pathogens in biosolids used as fertilizer or soil amendments.

Why is this important

Biosolids are routinely applied to agricultural land and forests as a cost-effective disposal method and nutrient source, but they can contain heavy metals, pharmaceutical residues, and "forever chemicals" (PFOA/PFOS) that accumulate in soil and potentially enter the food chain. This bill directly affects farmers, wastewater treatment facilities, and communities near application sites, with implications for food safety, groundwater protection, and property values in affected areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry costs: Stricter standards and monitoring requirements will increase operational expenses for wastewater utilities and may reduce the economic viability of biosolids recycling programs
  • Agricultural impact: Restrictions on application areas may limit farmers' access to low-cost soil amendments and fertilizers, potentially increasing agricultural input costs
  • Scientific uncertainty: Disagreement may exist over what contamination levels are truly safe and whether current federal EPA standards are adequate or unnecessarily restrictive

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

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