Mississippi Groundwater Protection Trust Fund; authorize payment of administrative costs.
Impact
The adjustments made by SB2158 are significant as they ensure the continued operation and effective management of the UST Program, which is critical for environmental protection and public health. By facilitating the flow of necessary funds for administrative actions and contamination cleanups, the bill helps to maintain consistent regulatory oversight of underground storage tanks across the state. This change is aimed at ensuring funds are available for the detection and remediation of contamination from leaking tanks, thus safeguarding groundwater resources.
Summary
Senate Bill 2158 amends existing Mississippi legislation relating to the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program by addressing the funding and administrative costs associated with the Mississippi Groundwater Protection Trust Fund. The bill proposes that when the fees collected from underground storage tanks are insufficient to cover these administrative costs, the fund can be utilized to make up the difference. Specifically, up to one million dollars annually can be appropriated from the fund for these purposes.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment surrounding SB2158 appears favorable, particularly among environmental advocates and public health officials who recognize the importance of addressing potential environmental hazards posed by underground storage tanks. However, there may be some concerns regarding the reliance on the fund for covering administrative costs, as it highlights the potential for shortfalls in the collection of fees, which could raise questions about the sustainability of the program and the long-term implications for environmental funding.
Contention
One notable point of contention involving SB2158 could revolve around the adequacy of the funding mechanisms set forth by the bill. Some stakeholders may argue that the fees collected from UST owners should be sufficient to cover all associated costs without needing to draw from the trust fund, as this could impact the fund's balance and its ability to address future cleanup efforts comprehensively. Therefore, stakeholders may advocate for an examination of the entire fee structure to ensure its effectiveness in securing necessary funding for the program's long-term viability.
Corporation Commission; modifying authority over certain injection wells; establishing process for Class VI facility applications and unitization. Effective date.
A bill for an act relating to underground storage tanks, including repealing the Iowa comprehensive petroleum underground storage tank fund and eliminating the Iowa comprehensive petroleum underground storage tank fund board, making appropriations, and including effective date and transition provisions. (Formerly SF 2327, SSB 3177.) Effective date: 04/19/2024, 07/01/2024.