May 4
Three Democratic senators from the Northeast have introduced legislation
to require sewer plant operators monitor and notify the community of sewer
overflows.
Sens. Frank R. Lautenberg, D-N.J., Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Sheldon
Whitehouse, D-R.I. said the Sewage Overflow Right-To-Know Act of 2009 would
reduce human illnesses by informing communities of sewer overflows
discharging waste into local waterways within 24 hours.
Plant operators would need to notify the public, public health officials and
other affected downstream entities, including drinking water suppliers, of
any sewer overflows that endanger human health. They would also be required
to notify state or U.S. EPA officials as soon as possible.
Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Bruce Geiselman at
330-865-6172 or bgeiselman@crain.com
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