CLEANER Act of 2023 Closing Loopholes and Ending Arbitrary and Needless Evasion of Regulations Act of 2023
By explicitly including drilling fluids and produced waters as waste required to be regulated, the CLEANER Act of 2023 would potentially alter how these wastes are classified and handled under federal law. The bill mandates that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) evaluate and classify these wastes as hazardous if deemed necessary, which may lead to stricter controls and handling requirements. This could have far-reaching implications for the oil and gas industries, requiring them to adapt their waste management practices in compliance with more rigorous environmental regulations.
House Bill 4777, also known as the CLEANER Act of 2023, aims to enhance regulations concerning the management of waste produced from the exploration, development, or production of crude oil, natural gas, and geothermal energy. A significant objective of this bill is to close loopholes that currently allow for the evasion of existing waste regulations under the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Essentially, the bill seeks to ensure that all waste associated with these energy sources is managed in a manner that is consistent with environmental protection standards.
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 4777 is the balance between economic interests and environmental protection. Proponents of the bill argue that enhanced regulation is essential for safeguarding public health and the environment, emphasizing the risks posed by improperly managed waste. Opponents, however, may view the bill as an overreach that could impose excessive burdens on the industry, potentially leading to increased costs and reduced competitiveness. The debate reflects broader tensions between environmental concerns and the economic realities of energy production.