Reps. Rader, Brennan Introduce Legislation to Prohibit Radioactive Brine from Being Spread on Ohio Roads

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) and Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) today announced the introduction of legislation that would ban the use of toxic oil and gas brine, including commercially sold products such as AquaSalina, as a road de-icer or dust suppressant in Ohio.

In 2017, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) released a report detailing that these brine products contain radioactive materials and heavy metals, including radium at levels far exceeding federal drinking water standards. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Radium-226 and Radium-228 are known carcinogens that can increase the risk of bone, liver, and breast cancer when exposure levels are high.  

“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.” 

“No Ohioans should have to wonder if the salt trucks in their neighborhoods are spreading toxic waste,” said Rep. Brennan. “This legislation is about transparency, accountability, and protecting the health of our families. Clean roads should never come at the expense of clean water.”

While the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) stopped purchasing AquaSalina in 2021, some municipalities and local governments continue to use brine on local roads. This legislation ensures consistency across the state, preventing the continued application of these hazardous substances.

This legislation now awaits a bill number and committee assignment.