Regulation of coal combustion residuals.
If effective, SB 0412 will require the Environmental Rules Board to adopt regulations that are consistent with the federal CCR rule. The intention is to enhance environmental protection by ensuring that disposals do not occur in areas prone to flooding, groundwater contact, or seismic impacts. This bill would make significant changes to Indiana's environmental laws by providing clear guidelines for waste management and mitigating potential risks associated with coal combustion residuals, aiming for a more sustainable approach to waste disposal.
Senate Bill 0412 establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework concerning the management and disposal of coal combustion residuals (CCR) in the state of Indiana. The bill mandates that a state policy favoring beneficial uses of CCR be enacted, while outlining strict conditions under which CCR can be disposed of. Specifically, CCR cannot be disposed of in areas that are within a 500-year flood plain, in contact with groundwater, or where they may migrate into uppermost aquifers. The bill aims to ensure that federal standards regarding the disposal of coal combustion residuals are met or exceeded by state regulations.
Notably, there might be points of contention regarding the implications of the bill on coal industry practices and the associated economic impacts. Stakeholders may express concerns about the increased regulatory burden on facilities managing CCR. Furthermore, the annual fees imposed on permit holders for managing CCR surface impoundments could be viewed as economically burdensome. Critics may argue over the balance between effective environmental protection and the operational viability of existing coal power plants, reflecting a broader debate about the future of coal energy in Indiana.