I applaud the signing of the ‘Sewage Pollution Right To Know’ law, which I co-sponsored, because it is a win for public safety. With the enactment of this legislation, wastewater treatment plants now will be required to immediately notify the public in the event of a discharge of certain untreated or partially treated sewage.

This bill helps ensure the public safety in the event of a spill or leakage at a sewer treatment facility. By requiring these facilities to provide detailed information to local departments of health and the media, we have given these groups the tools necessary to ensure that appropriate responses are taken to safeguard against the spread of disease. Long Island waterways are an integral part of our community and heritage, and I am pleased that we’ve taken another step to ensure their continued beauty.