RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Richmond is set to take aggressive steps to address the sewage overflows into the James River under new legislation that was passed by Virginia lawmakers.

“After heavy rainfalls, the city’s combined sewage system currently discharges untreated sewage into the James River,” a release from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation said.

The new legislation put a timeline for Richmond to complete upgrades to the system by 2035.

“The General Assembly and the Governor would annually consider the cost and progress of this work in reports provided by the City of Richmond,” the release said.

This will help lawmakers have the funding needed to make the upgrades.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement: