A New York bill proposing a five-year halt on spreading sewage sludge on farmland failed to get a vote in the Assembly, according to Spectrum News. Though it had bipartisan backing, lawmakers reversed course in committee, reportedly under pressure from biosolids industry lobbyists.
Assemblywoman Anna Kelles, who sponsored the bill, warned of PFAS contamination from sludge used as compost or soil amendments. Some upstate towns already banned the practice after discovering toxic chemicals in nearby wells.
Opponents argue the moratorium would raise disposal costs for municipalities. The bill remains on the legislative calendar and could return next session, but its path forward remains uncertain amid competing environmental and economic concerns.
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