S 2791

This bill aims to prevent the discharge of radioactive materials into Massachusetts waters and lands by establishing strict prohibitions and penalties. It amends existing state law to explicitly prohibit any person from depositing, disposing of, or discharging radioactive materials into coastal or inland waters, tidal areas, or onto land owned by others, with violations punishable by fines of up to $10,000 for first offenses and $25,000 for subsequent offenses. The legislation also creates strict liability for violators, making them financially responsible for all damages to the Commonwealth, private property, or businesses resulting from such discharges, regardless of fault. Additionally, the bill clarifies that existing definitions of hazardous materials in state environmental law do not exclude radioactive materials from regulation when their release violates Commonwealth standards protecting health, environment, or economic interests.