Mississippi House Bill HB1334

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Engrossed: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/11/22
• Failed: 3/1/22

Caption

Mississippi Groundwater Protection Trust Fund; authorize payment of administrative costs.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for the administration of the UST Program by providing a funding mechanism that ensures the program can function even when fees fall short. This approach is likely to enhance the state's ability to respond to potential environmental hazards and ensures that necessary funds are available for monitoring, regulatory compliance, and remediation efforts. By reinforcing how these funds can be utilized, the bill strengthens the overall regulatory framework overseeing USTs and their environmental impacts.

Summary

House Bill 1334 aims to amend the Mississippi Code to provide for the financial management of the Mississippi Groundwater Protection Trust Fund. The bill states that if fees collected from underground storage tanks (USTs) are insufficient to cover the administrative costs of the Underground Storage Tank Program, costs can be paid using the funds from this trust. This is designed to ensure effective and ongoing management of environmental risks associated with underground storage tanks, particularly in the context of preventing groundwater contamination.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1334 has been largely positive among stakeholders concerned with environmental protection and public health. Supporters argue that the bill is a critical step in ensuring that Mississippi's groundwater resources are safeguarded against pollution. However, there may be concerns from those opposed to increased funding requirements imposed on UST operators, who may feel that additional fees could be burdensome.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the adequacy of fees and the extent to which costs associated with groundwater protection should be funded through the trust fund. Some stakeholders might argue that relying on this fund could lead to insufficient resources being allocated for cleanups or other critical environmental services, particularly if the fees assessed do not provide a sustainable revenue model for long-term groundwater protection initiatives.