SB 737

The bill requires the Department of Environmental Quality perform a statewide analysis of all toxics entering Oregon's waterways, identify the worst sources of this pollution and prioritize a list of the most dangerous persistent and bioaccumulative toxins that, through their quantity or toxicity, present the greatest threat to public health, the environment and fish.

The DEQ's report will identify feasible options for reducing or eliminating this pollution. After the completion of this report, all major municipal sources of pollution, which make up the majority of the 'point source' pollution entering Oregon's waterways, will develop and implement pollution reduction plans, including what are called 'industrial pre-treaters' - ie. pulp mills and manufacturing facilities - that use municipal water systems to discharge their waste.

This bill provides Oregon a 'roadmap' to launch a prevention process and set priorities to prevent, reduce and eliminate major sources of toxic pollution to protect Oregon's rivers and streams for future generations.

It passed resoundingly through the House and Senate. 

Contact:

Ivan Maluski
Oregon Chapter Sierra Club