South Central PA News

Doug Mastriano, a state senator for Pennsylvania's 33rd District, announced that SB624 would prohibit the use of food processing residuals (FPR) in the state due to concerns about groundwater contamination. The statement was made on X on April 15.

"I held a roundtable discussion to listen to families in Antrim Township who have been directly affected by food processing residuals (FPR," said Mastriano. "I have introduced SB624, an essential bill aimed at banning the use of FPR in Pennsylvania. I have introduced SB624, an essential bill aimed at banning the use of FPR in Pennsylvania. Together, we can ensure clean, safe water for all Pennsylvanians."

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, FPR includes solids, sludges, liquids, and semi-solids generated from food and beverage production. The 2022 FPR Workgroup Final Report indicates that while FPR materials are commonly applied to land for beneficial use, they can pose risks if not managed properly. Concerns highlighted in the report include potential impacts on water quality, soil conditions, and public health in areas where FPR is applied.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported in 2023 that groundwater in Pennsylvania is generally suitable for drinking but may contain contaminants exceeding human health benchmarks. The report found that 20% of sampled wells had concentrations of at least one contaminant above health-based standards, including arsenic, manganese, and nitrate. Samples were collected from 472 wells across the state between 2017 and 2019.

Similarly, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, testing of private well water in the state has shown that 40% of wells contain at least one water quality issue. Common contaminants found include coliform bacteria, nitrate, lead, and other pollutants that can pose health risks. The Department advises regular testing since private wells are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Mastriano is a member of the Pennsylvania State Senate representing the 33rd District since 2019. A retired U.S. Army colonel, he has focused on issues such as veterans' affairs, education, and environmental policy. He ran as the Republican nominee in the 2022 Pennsylvania gubernatorial election.