The Baker administration is proposing that Massachusetts assume greater responsibility for water quality protection.
Gov. Charlie Baker Wednesday announced legislation that would have the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection take over permitting and enforcement of stormwater discharges under the federal Clean Water Act. Forty-six other states do this now.
Andrew Fisk, executive director of the Connecticut River Watershed Council, said Baker’s proposal is a strong first step.
" And we are looking forward to putting a lot more of the details in place so we have a gold standard clean water program in Massachusetts because the waters deserve it," Fisk said.
Baker has proposed a $1.4 million budget increase for MassDEP to hire more staff.
