Provides relative to the Motor Fuels Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund. (8/1/17) (OR SEE FISC NOTE SD EX)
Impact
The bill allows for the disbursement of funds primarily to cover administrative and personnel expenses incurred in managing the trust fund, with a cap of $2,500,000 per fiscal year unless further approved by an advisory board. This could lead to streamlined financial management within the environmental protection framework, as it clarifies how funds can be allocated towards necessary expenditures while ensuring that the fund remains solvent and focused on its intended purpose.
Summary
Senate Bill 160, introduced by Senator Walsworth, focuses on the Motor Fuels Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund, assigning additional responsibilities and financial practices related to the fund. The bill maintains current laws governing the fund while specifying that all remaining funds, including earned interest at the end of the fiscal year, must stay in the fund for future uses. SB 160 emphasizes that the fund is dedicated solely to administrative oversight, particularly concerning the management of underground storage tanks and not to be mixed with general state revenues.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the bill appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers concerned with environmental management and compliance, as the provisions protect the integrity of the trust fund and enhance fiscal accountability. Stakeholders in environmental sectors may find reassurance in the sustainable management of resources aimed at maintaining compliance with regulations about underground storage tanks. However, there could also be concerns regarding bureaucratic oversight and the potential limitations on expenditures, depending on how strictly the advisory board enforces the proposed restrictions.
Contention
Some potential points of contention could arise from discussions about the advisory board's level of authority over funding approvals, particularly regarding emergency fund allocations or unexpected expenses. Similarly, as the bill outlines limited use of the funds strictly for administrative reasons, stakeholders may debate the adequacy of this provision in addressing broader environmental concerns and the potential need for more flexible funding directives to support immediate environmental initiatives.
Increases the available monies expended from the Motor Fuel Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund from one million dollars to one million five hundred thousand dollars. (8/1/15) (EN +$575,000 SD EX See Note)
Requests the Department of Environmental Quality to study including above ground bulk storage facilities in the Motor Fuels Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund.