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HB 1553

PFAS biosolids testing.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Maureen Bauer

Indiana bill mandates PFAS testing of wastewater biosolids before land application to prevent forever chemicals from contaminating agricultural soil and groundwater.

First reading: referred to Committee on Environmental Affairs
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Bill Summary · HB 1553

Legislative bill overview

HB 1553 requires testing of biosolids—the nutrient-rich residue from wastewater treatment—for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly called "forever chemicals"). The bill establishes standards for allowable PFAS levels before biosolids can be land-applied as fertilizer or soil amendment on agricultural and residential properties.

Why is this important

PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and accumulate in living organisms. Biosolids application is a major pathway for PFAS to enter agricultural soils and groundwater. This bill addresses a significant gap in environmental protection by preventing contaminated biosolids from spreading PFAS pollution to farmland and homes where people live and grow food.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to wastewater treatment facilities: Mandatory PFAS testing adds regulatory and operational expenses that may be passed to ratepayers
  • Stringency of limits: Disagreement over what PFAS thresholds are protective versus economically feasible; stricter limits could eliminate biosolids application as a viable disposal method
  • Alignment with federal standards: Indiana would be setting its own PFAS limits while EPA standards are still developing, creating potential conflicts or inconsistencies with federal policy

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

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