West Virginia House Bill HB4119

West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/18/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate a legislative rule relating to Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources

Impact

The implementation of HB 4119 is expected to have a positive impact on the state's environmental legislation. By empowering the DEP to establish rules, this bill potentially strengthens the state's capacity to regulate emissions from new stationary sources, thus contributing to better air quality and public health. The legal framework allows the state to respond more swiftly and effectively to environmental challenges and align more closely with federal environmental standards, which can stimulate investment in cleaner technologies.

Summary

House Bill 4119 aims to authorize the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in West Virginia to promulgate legislative rules concerning the Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources. This bill is positioned to enhance the regulatory framework in relation to air quality standards, specifically targeting emissions from new industrial sources, thereby aligning state regulations with contemporary environmental standards. The legislation is part of a broader effort by the DEP to modernize and enforce environmental protections effectively in response to evolving industrial practices and technologies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding House Bill 4119 appears generally positive among environmental advocacy groups and regulators, who view it as a much-needed update to the state's environmental regulation framework. Proponents believe that the bill addresses critical issues related to air quality and public health, fostering a more sustainable industry. However, there are concerns from industry representatives who fear that stringent regulations may add compliance costs or hinder economic growth, illustrating the nuanced debate surrounding the legislation.

Contention

While overall support for HB 4119 reflects a commitment to environmental protection, notable points of contention include the potential economic impact on businesses that may be subjected to stricter regulations. Industry stakeholders may advocate for more flexible approaches or seek to influence the rule-making process to mitigate burdens on new industrial projects. Balancing environmental concerns with economic growth remains a central theme in discussions about the implications of this bill.