Relating to consumption of fishes; to require the State Health Officer to issue advisories concerning fish consumption and to establish a panel to advise on and discuss this issue; to require the Department of Environmental Management to test fishes for pollutants and post signage at water bodies notifying of an active fish consumption advisory; to require the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to notify fish license purchasers of all active advisories; and to require holders of National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits to post signage identifying outfalls.
Impact
This legislation compels the Alabama Department of Environmental Management to conduct routine evaluations of fish species for pollutants, which could significantly influence state health regulations and enhance public awareness regarding environmental safety. It also requires the development of a reporting system where the Department will post advisories detailing whether certain fish species are safe for consumption, thus aiming to mitigate health risks related to fish-related illnesses stemming from polluted waters. Moreover, it compels those holding National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits to post signage identifying outfalls, creating transparency about where pollutants are discharging into the waters.
Summary
House Bill 419, known as the Safe and Healthy Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023, mandates that the State Health Officer issue advisories regarding fish consumption based on health considerations and levels of pollutants. The bill establishes a framework for assessing the safety of fish caught by Alabama residents, who value fishing as a significant part of their outdoor recreation. By enforcing these advisories, the bill aims to educate the public about potential health risks associated with consuming fish from contaminated waters, thus ensuring the well-being of citizens who rely on these natural resources for food and recreation.
Contention
While proponents of HB 419 argue that it will improve public health and safety regarding fish consumption, there may be concerns regarding enforcement and the potential financial implications for state agencies responsible for monitoring and responding to pollution levels. Stakeholders may debate the balance between environmental regulatory oversight and the operational challenges associated with implementing such advisories. Questions over the adequacy of funding and resources needed to effectively monitor fish safety and pollution levels may also arise, leading to discussions about the bill's long-term viability and impact on environmental health initiatives.
Shark alert system; established; implementation by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources required; state and local entities assistance required
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Commissioner, to require issuance of permit to release black bass into Coosa river under certain circumstances
Recycling; Department of Environmental Management required to issue credits; Department of Revenue required to accept credits in lieu of fees; civil penalties established
Safe Drinking Water Act; environmental management department required to investigate for PFAS; private right of action against responsible persons established
Alabama Department of Environmental Management; water well drillers, licenses and licensees, fees therefore, revised and further provides for; continuing education required
Alabama Drycleaning Response Trust Fund Board, requirement that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management prevent involvement of other units of government in contamination problems deleted; required minimum balance in Alabama Drycleaning Environmental Response Trust Fund reduced from one million to two hundred fifty thousand dollars
Alabama Drycleaning Response Trust Fund Board, requirement that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management prevent involvement of other units of government in contamination problems deleted; required minimum balance in Alabama Drycleaning Environmental Response Trust Fund reduced from one million to two hundred fifty thousand dollars
Seafood products, country of origin notification, correct name, differentiate between farm-raised and wild fish; required for food service establishments
Relating to consumption of fishes; to require the State Health Officer to issue advisories concerning fish consumption and to establish a panel to advise on and discuss this issue; to require the Alabama Department of Environmental Management to test fishes for pollutants and post signage at water bodies notifying of an active fish consumption advisory; and to require the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to notify fish license purchasers of all active advisories.
Relating to consumption of fishes; to require the State Health Officer to issue advisories concerning fish consumption and to establish a panel to advise on and discuss this issue; to require the Department of Environmental Management to test fishes for pollutants and post signage at water bodies notifying of an active fish consumption advisory; to require the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to notify fish license purchasers of all active advisories; and to require holders of National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits to post signage identifying outfalls.