An effort to revive efforts to clean up the state’s waterways has been introduced.
House Bill 272 was introduced by Democratic legislators with State Rep. Deborah Hudson, R-Greenville the lone Republican co-sponsor.
The legislation was first introduced by Gov. Jack Markell as part of a package that was deeply unpopular since it would have been financed with a property tax charge.
Residents and legislators take pride in the state’s low property tax rate that reflects the lack of municipalities and the state picking up much of the tab for public education.
The new bill would add an income tax surcharge as well as an increase in the annual business license fee.
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Delaware has among the nation’s most polluted waterways, thanks in part to chemical pollution in much of the state and according to some critics outdated waste treatment plants.
Wells have also been a problem. Sites in Newark and Hockessin have been identified as Superfund candidates.
The small western Sussex County community of Blades is currently dealing with contamination of its wells with a chemical used in the plating industry.
The National Guard was called in last week to distribute drinking water as work got under way to reduce the contaminants.
In an in-depth report, the Delaware State News said that chances of passage are small, with no enthusiasm among Republicans.
