WATER BOTTLING SOURCE PROTECTION

S.9015 (Scozzafava)

Summary

This bill would prohibit New York State’s Department of Health from certifying or re-certifying a water bottling facility where water would be extracted from an in-state source unless the facility meets current standards for bottled and bulk water, and submits an adequacy of source evaluation. The adequacy of source evaluation must assess the potential impact on the water source and provide assurances that the proposed extractions will not degrade the source. The adequacy of source evaluation must be approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation.

Explanation

New York State’s seemingly endless supply of high-quality water resources makes our state highly attractive for bottlers. While standards and regulations exist related to the quality of water bottled for sale, there is growing concern related to the amount of water taken from in-state sources.

Failing to supervise this ever-growing industry leaves our water resources at risk. Without proper siting and investigation, a large-scale extraction—such as a bottling facility—can draw down aquifers and surrounding streams, negatively affect neighbors, and damage fish stocks. With much of Upstate’s economy reliant on our natural resources for travel and tourism dollars, including recreational fishing, this gaping regulatory hole leaves thousands of New York communities vulnerable.

Requiring water bottling facilities to submit and receive approval of source adequacy evaluations will result in environmental benefits. The measure will protect property owners, lessen pollution, promote conservation, and will help to protect New York’s resources to the benefit of the entire state.

Environmental Advocates of New York supports this bill.