Relating to the discharge of toxic pollutants associated with coal ash into water sources

This bill relates to the discharge of toxic pollutants associated with coal ash into water sources. The bill states the intent of the general assembly is to protect communities, drinking water, groundwater, and air quality from avoidable toxic pollutants contained in coal ash. The bill prohibits electric power generating facilities fueled by coal and coal ash landfills from discharging toxic pollutants from flue gas desulfurization wastewater, bottom ash transport water, or combustion residual leachate into water sources. The bill establishes compliance timelines for the prohibition. Electric power generating facilities fueled by coal and coal ash landfills that are in operation before July 1, 2026, are required to comply with the prohibition as soon as possible, but no later than December 31, 2029. Electric power generating facilities fueled by coal and coal ash landfills that begin operation on or after July 1, 2026, are required to comply with the prohibition prior to commencing operation. The bill directs the department to adopt rules necessary to implement the bill.