Louisiana House Bill HB392

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/18
• Refer: 3/2/18
• Refer: 3/12/18

Caption

Exempts pulp and paper wastes from certain impoundment regulations

Impact

If enacted, House Bill 392 would lead to a significant shift in how Mississippi regulates waste from pulp and paper production. By exempting on-site waste impoundments from specific regulations, the bill could promote efficiency and reduce operational costs for facilities involved in pulp and paper production. However, this exemption raises concerns among environmental advocates who worry that it may lead to inadequate waste management practices, potentially impacting the local environment and public health adversely.

Summary

House Bill 392, introduced by Representative McFarland, seeks to amend existing regulations concerning waste impoundments in Louisiana, specifically exempting certain pulp and paper wastes from standard regulatory requirements. The bill aims to alleviate the regulatory burden on facilities that generate these wastes on-site, allowing them to bypass liner, final cover, and closure/post-closure requirements typically mandated under state law. This change aligns with existing exemptions for bauxite waste and seeks to provide similar relief for the pulp and paper industry, considered vital to the state's economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 392 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill will bolster the pulp and paper industry by reducing unnecessary regulatory hurdles, thus enhancing economic activity and job creation in the sector. Conversely, opponents are skeptical of the potential environmental ramifications, fearing that relaxed regulations could lead to irresponsible waste management practices. As such, the bill has sparked a debate between economic development and environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing struggle to balance industry interests with public health and environmental safety.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 392 is the potential impact on environmental protections and the authority of state regulatory bodies. Critics argue that this bill undermines essential safeguards that protect the environment from the adverse effects of waste generated by industrial activities. By allowing exemptions for pulp and paper waste without stringent oversight, there are fears that local ecosystems may be threatened, especially given the harmful nature of certain waste products. Thus, while supporting the industrial sector's needs, the bill also raises significant questions about the adequacy of environmental protections in Louisiana.