Us Congress House Bill HB1070

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/23
• Refer: 2/17/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23

Caption

To amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to provide the owner or operator of a critical energy resource facility an interim permit under subtitle C that is subject to final approval by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and for other purposes.

Impact

The proposed changes will have significance on state environmental laws in relation to the management of hazardous waste. By providing a pathway for interim permits, the bill aims to ensure that critical energy facilities can continue operations while they secure long-term compliance and permits. This is particularly relevant in the context of national energy infrastructure, where timely approval of waste management plans can be crucial for operational stability.

Summary

House Bill 1070 seeks to amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act, specifically allowing the owner or operator of a critical energy resource facility to obtain an interim hazardous waste permit. This permit would be subject to final approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The intent behind the bill is to streamline the permitting process for facilities that are considered vital to the energy sector, especially those that process or refine critical energy resources, whose supply chains are deemed vulnerable to disruptions.

Sentiment

There appears to be a supportive sentiment surrounding HB 1070, particularly among stakeholders in the energy sector who argue that the bill facilitates necessary efficiency in the permitting process. However, there are some concerns about the potential implications for environmental safeguards, as interim permits may be viewed as circumventing thorough regulatory scrutiny that ensures environmental safety. This dichotomy of perspectives highlights the tension between the need for energy security and the importance of environmental protection.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between expediting necessary energy resource facility operations and maintaining robust environmental regulations. While proponents advocate for the need to protect essential energy supply chains through expedited permitting, critics express worry that such measures may undermine environmental protections and lead to potential hazards. The discussion surrounding HB 1070 underscores the ongoing debate between facilitating energy infrastructure development and ensuring ecological responsibility.