Prohibits the open burning of munitions and waste explosives
Impact
The proposed legislation signifies a significant change in state law regarding air quality control and the management of hazardous waste. By eliminating the possibility for open burning of potentially dangerous materials, the bill seeks to reduce air contamination and protect public health. However, the allowance of exceptions raises discussions about the balance between necessary military operations and environmental safety, as military installations may need to dispose of munitions through burning in specific scenarios.
Summary
House Bill 11 aims to address environmental concerns by prohibiting the open burning of munitions and waste explosives. The bill specifically empowers the secretary of the Department of Environmental Quality to enforce this prohibition by restricting the issuance of permits that would allow such practices. An important aspect of the bill is that it includes an exception for the military and state police, allowing them to conduct open burning under regulated circumstances. This act is set to take effect on January 1, 2018.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 11 is largely positive, particularly among environmental advocates who appreciate the intention to safeguard air quality. Supporters of the bill underscore the importance of regulating harmful practices to ensure community health and safety. However, there may be underlying concerns about the effectiveness of the exceptions provided, as some constituents worry about the implications of military authority overriding public health considerations.
Contention
Points of contention regarding HB 11 may arise from the exemptions permitted for military and state police open burning, as critics argue that these exceptions could potentially lead to instances where toxic substances are released into the air. This duality of providing necessary flexibility for military functions while ensuring environmental protection presents a challenging debate. The effectiveness of the bill in achieving its environmental goals without compromising public health remains a pertinent topic of discussion among stakeholders.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)