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Bill

SB 5033

Concerning sampling or testing of biosolids for PFAS chemicals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jess Bateman and 10 co-sponsors

Washington requires wastewater treatment facilities to test biosolids for PFAS before agricultural application, effective July 2025.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 5033

Legislative bill overview

SB 5033 establishes requirements for sampling and testing biosolids—nutrient-rich byproducts from wastewater treatment—for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." The bill mandates that treatment facilities and biosolids applicators test for PFAS contamination before land application, with results reported to the Department of Ecology. This legislation addresses concerns that biosolids applied to agricultural land may introduce PFAS into soil and groundwater.

Why is this important

PFAS are persistent synthetic chemicals used in numerous industrial and consumer products that accumulate in the environment and human bodies, with links to serious health effects including liver damage, thyroid disease, and immune suppression. Biosolids—commonly land-applied as fertilizer on farms—represent a potential pathway for PFAS to enter food and water supplies. This bill represents Washington's effort to monitor and potentially prevent environmental contamination through increased transparency and data collection.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden: Mandatory testing may increase operational costs for wastewater treatment facilities and biosolids applicators, potentially passed to municipalities or farmers
  • Incomplete regulatory framework: The bill establishes testing requirements but does not specify PFAS action levels or land-application restrictions, leaving actual management decisions unclear
  • Biosolids disposal alternatives: Stricter PFAS monitoring could reduce beneficial land-application options, forcing more biosolids to landfills or incinerators, with unclear environmental trade-offs

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

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