Emrick Request to Study Use of Sewage Sludge Passes Unanimously
HARRISBURG – The state House on Thursday unanimously passed legislation authored by state Rep. Joe Emrick (R-Nazareth) that asks Pennsylvania’s Legislative Budget and Finance Committee (LBFC) to review the Commonwealth's program for beneficial use of sewage sludge by land application.
“It has been nearly 20 years since a thorough study of the use of sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, has been conducted,” Emrick said. “I’ve heard the concerns from all sides on this issue. The goal of the study is to gather as much information as possible about the pros and cons of using sewage sludge. House Resolution 60 will also examine alternative disposal methods and possible benefits in areas such as electric power generation and abandoned mine reclamation.”
House Resolution 60 will result in examination of the following:
- The methods currently used for biosolids use and disposal in PA.
- The costs involved with current methods of biosolids use and disposal.
- The methods used to administer and enforce the program established by the Department of Environmental Protection.
- All appropriate alternatives to current use and disposal methods employed in Pennsylvania and in other states, particularly in regard to their economic feasibility and effects on the environment and on public health in comparison to current use and disposal methods.
Any alternative beneficial use, including but not limited to, electric power generation and abandoned mine reclamation, and any obstacles that may hinder the expansion of any alternative beneficial use of biosolids.
Emrick’s resolution requires the LBFC to report its findings to the House within one year of passage.
Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Emrick’s district office at (570) 897-0401 or (610) 746-5090.
Representative Joe Emrick
137th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Scott Little
717.260.6137
slittle@pahousegop.com
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