Missouri Senate Bill SB483

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 3/23/23

Caption

Authorizes an action by the Attorney General to recover remediation costs and damages

Impact

The proposed legislation could significantly enhance the state's ability to intervene in cases of water contamination. By granting the Attorney General the authority to seek remediation and damages, the bill will likely increase accountability among public utilities and other responsible entities. One of the potential implications is that public utilities, if found liable for contaminating public water systems, cannot transfer the incurred costs to their customers, thus protecting consumers from bearing the financial burden of such actions.

Summary

Senate Bill 483 aims to strengthen regulations surrounding the release of contaminants into public water systems in Missouri. This legislation proposes allowing the Department of Natural Resources to pursue civil action against entities found responsible for contaminating drinking water supplies. The bill's provisions intend to ensure that those responsible for environmental damage can be held accountable for remediation costs and any related damages, emphasizing public health and safety regarding drinking water quality.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 483 appears generally supportive among advocates for environmental protection and public health. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step towards safeguarding water quality and ensuring that responsible parties face the consequences of their actions. However, there may be concerns from utility companies about the potential financial implications of being liable for contamination events, which could create opposition from these stakeholders.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 483 may include discussions on the balance between protecting public health and the operational burdens imposed on public utilities. The bill explicitly prohibits utilities from passing remediation costs onto customers, which could lead to resistance from utility companies concerned about financial viability. Thus, while the bill has strong public health intentions, its implementation may invoke debate regarding equitable responsibility between the state, utilities, and consumers.