Gov. John Baldacci will sign a bill that seeks to reduce haze in Maine’s air by restricting sulfur content in fuel oil.

The measure to be signed in a ceremony in the governor’s office Monday says the sulfur content of distillate fuel may not be greater than 0.005 percent by weight as of 2016. The percentage drops further in 2018.

The sponsor, Democratic Sen. Seth Goodall of Richmond, said high sulfur content in heating fuel reduces visibility at Maine’s celebrated vistas, most notably Acadia National Park. Goodall said the bill has economic and environmental benefits and will improve the health of thousands of people.


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