Reps. Brennan, Rader Offer Testimony on Bill to Prohibit Use of Toxic Oil & Gas Brine on Ohio Roads

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) and Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) today offered sponsor testimony on House Bill (HB) 439 before the Ohio House Natural Resources Committee. The bill would prohibit the use of toxic oil and gas brine, including commercially sold products such as AquaSalina, on Ohio’s roads and highways as a de-icer or dust suppressant.

“House Bill 439 is simple and straightforward — it prohibits the surface application of toxic oil and gas liquid waste, often incorrectly called ‘brine,’ on our roads and highways,” said Rep. Brennan. “This waste isn’t just salty water — it’s toxic and radioactive, containing dangerous materials like Radium-226 and Radium-228 that the CDC identifies as carcinogens. No Ohioan should have to wonder whether the ‘salt truck’ driving down their street is actually spreading radioactive waste.”

“Ohioans deserve safe and responsible stewardship of our roads, not a disposal scheme for toxic waste,” said Rep. Rader. “This is about protecting public health, safeguarding our waterways, and preventing long-term environmental and financial costs for Ohio communities.”  

In 2017, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) confirmed that oil and gas brine contains radioactive materials and heavy metals at levels far exceeding federal drinking water standards. While both the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Turnpike Commission have stopped using these substances, some local jurisdictions continue to apply them, often unaware of the risks.               

“Clean roads should never come at the expense of clean water or public health,” continued Rep. Brennan. “House Bill 439 ensures consistency across Ohio and protects families, communities, and natural resources. We already have safe, effective alternatives like beet-based de-icing products that are biodegradable, non-toxic, and even open the door for new agricultural opportunities here at home.”

Rep. Brennan closed his testimony by emphasizing the bill’s broader message of environmental stewardship and public responsibility.

“This is our Erin Brockovich moment,” concluded Rep. Brennan. “It’s time to make sure our solutions today don’t become tomorrow’s problems. House Bill 439 is about accountability, transparency, and protecting the health and safety of every Ohioan.”