Shumlin Vetoes Well Water Bill

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Gov. Peter Shumlin has vetoed a bill that would have imposed new requirements for testing private wells when they are first developed and when properties are sold.

Shumlin said in a veto message issued Thursday that he doesn’t like the idea of imposing new costs on Vermonters living in rural areas. He also argues that the vast majority of well water in the state is clean and safe.

It’s Shumlin’s first and only veto so far.

Rep. David Deen, chairman of the House Fish and Wildlife Committee, says the aim of the bill was to ensure wells were tested for arsenic and other heavy metals. He says lawmakers may try to change Shumlin’s mind next year.

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