1. United States
2. Ky.
3. Letter

Groundwater and surface waters are vital resources that support life and economic activities across Kentucky. The proposed revisions to Senate Bill 89 leave many water sources vulnerable to pollution by limiting state protections. While navigable waters, public water supply wellhead areas, and some springs would retain safeguards, the bill fails to adequately protect groundwater resources that thousands of rural households rely on for drinking water via private wells. Karst aquifers, which are crucial groundwater sources in many regions, would be left unprotected from contamination. By changing the legal definition of "waters of the commonwealth," SB 89 would also undermine other water quality regulations. Affordable access to clean water should be a priority. Weakening pollution controls puts public health and the environment at risk for the benefit of certain industries. Comprehensive protections for all groundwater and surface waters within the state must be maintained to safeguard these precious resources for all Kentuckians. I urge you to oppose SB 89 unless it is revised to preserve robust safeguards for all waters across the Commonwealth.