The act aims to enhance the state's preparedness for emergencies by ensuring fuel availability when it is most critical. Current fuel stations that are operational before the stipulated date are not required to retrofit unless they are undergoing significant renovations. This provision allows many existing fuel stations more time to adapt to the requirements while simultaneously pushing new constructions to be equipped for emergency scenarios from the outset.
Summary
House Bill 3423, known as the 'South Carolina Emergency Fuel Supply Act,' is designed to improve the resilience of fuel supply stations during emergency situations. The bill mandates that any fuel station constructed after January 1, 2025, and located within a half-mile of designated evacuation routes or on primary highways in South Carolina must install wiring to accommodate a backup generator. This requirement is aimed at ensuring that fuel stations can continue to operate during power outages, thereby supporting emergency response efforts.
Contention
While the bill has clear benefits for emergency preparedness, potential points of contention may arise among fuel station operators regarding the financial burden imposed by the new requirements. The need to install backup systems could be seen as an additional cost, especially for smaller operators who may struggle to meet these demands. Advocates argue that the safety and operational benefits outweigh the costs, but this could be a significant consideration in discussions around the bill's implementation.