Ocean Dumping Ban Act of 1988

The Public Law 100-688, also known as the Ocean Dumping Ban Act of 1988, was enacted on November 18, 1988. This law amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to prohibit ocean dumping of sewage sludge and industrial waste. The act establishes fees and penalties for violations and requires the creation of a trust account for fee payments. It also prohibits public vessels from disposing of potentially infectious medical waste into ocean waters unless specific conditions are met. Additionally, it amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act to include a prohibition on disposal of sewage sludge at landfills on Staten Island. The law requires states to use 10% of grant payments for developing alternative systems for managing sewage sludge. It also establishes civil penalties and enforcement procedures for violations related to dumping and transporting municipal or commercial waste.