S 540

This bill requires the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Public Health to study and report on the potential environmental and economic impacts of discharging radioactive wastewater from nuclear power plant decommissioning, particularly focusing on spent fuel pool water containing substances like tritium and boron. The legislation prohibits any discharge of such radioactive materials into Massachusetts waters—including through evaporation methods—until 90 days after the state agencies complete their report. The study must examine effects on industries like fishing, aquaculture, tourism, and restaurants, monitor pollution levels, and provide recommendations to mitigate negative impacts, effectively creating a temporary moratorium on radioactive water releases while ensuring thorough assessment of potential risks.