Illinois Exceptional Quality biosolids not subject to regulation as a sludge or other waste

On 20-JUL-2015, the Illinois General Assembly passed HB 1445 that amends the IL Environmental Protection Act that defines “exceptional quality biosolids.” This action (now Public Act 99-0067, see attached) provides that “Exceptional Quality biosolids shall not be subject to regulation as a sludge or other waste.”

“(a) The General Assembly finds that: (1) technological advances in wastewater treatment have allowed for the production of Exceptional Quality biosolids that can be used on land as a beneficial recyclable material that improves soil tilth, fertility, and stability and their use enhances the growth of agricultural, silvicultural, and horticultural crops; (2) Exceptional Quality biosolids are a resource to be recovered; and (3) the beneficial use of Exceptional Quality biosolids and their recycling to the land as a soil amendment is encouraged. (b) To encourage and promote the use of Exceptional Quality biosolids in productive and beneficial applications, to the extent allowed by federal law, Exceptional Quality biosolids shall not be subject to regulation as a sludge or other waste . . . .”

Also, see http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/99/PDF/099-0067.pdf; or
list of actions at http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1445&GAID=13&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=88&GA=99