Iowa House Bill HSB699

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/24
• Refer: 2/12/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the use of certain moneys in the storage tank management account of the groundwater protection fund, and making appropriations.(See HF 2588, HF 2646.)

Impact

The financial appropriations established by HSB699 will direct funds towards reimbursements for tank owners who engage in corrective actions related to petroleum releases. Furthermore, it mandates that at least $3 million of the transferred funds shall specifically address the permanent closure of systems associated with such tanks, and additional funding will support tank operator training. This reflects an emphasis on not only remediating existing environmental harm but also on building skills among tank operators to prevent future incidents.

Summary

House Study Bill 699 aims to amend the existing legal framework governing the use of funds within the storage tank management account of the groundwater protection fund. Notably, it transfers all unencumbered and unobligated funds from the Iowa Comprehensive Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Fund to the storage tank management account on the bill's effective date. This legislative change is designed to bolster the financial resources available for addressing environmental concerns associated with underground storage tanks, particularly in mitigating the impacts of petroleum releases.

Contention

While financial assistance for clean-up and training is generally viewed favorably, potential points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of funds and the management of environmental responsibilities. Stakeholders may debate the effectiveness of funds being channeled through the state’s management processes and whether the bill adequately addresses the local concerns about groundwater protection. Critics may question if the appropriation amounts are sufficient to meet the needs of the affected communities and whether adequate oversight mechanisms are in place to ensure the intended use of funds.