Virginia House Bill HB959

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Unpermitted discharges; dissemination of information, de minimis impact.

Impact

One of the significant implications of HB959 is its enhancement of transparency regarding water quality issues. By requiring the dissemination of information related to toxic discharges and health risks, the bill empowers citizens to make informed decisions about their health and environment. Furthermore, by coordinating with the Virginia Marine Resources Commission and the Department of Wildlife Resources, the bill aims to ensure adequate public notification regarding the safety of waterways, which is crucial for activities like fishing and hunting.

Summary

House Bill 959 focuses on enhancing public awareness and safety concerning water quality and toxic discharges in Virginia. The bill proposes amendments to §62.1-44.19:6 of the Code of Virginia, which establishes citizen right-to-know provisions. It mandates the Board to work closely with various departments to ensure that information regarding toxic impaired waters is clearly communicated to the public, particularly at public access points. The Board is also required to maintain a 'citizen hot-line' for residents to gain easy access to information about water conditions, including potential health risks related to toxic discharges.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB959 could involve points of contention related to the balance between public health and regulatory burdens on industries that may be affected by stricter reporting requirements. While proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting public health and ensuring environmental safety, critics may raise concerns about the administrative costs and impact on businesses that handle toxic materials. Moreover, the concept of ‘de minimis impact’ will likely generate debate on what thresholds justify public notification and how they are determined, especially regarding the criteria that the Department of Environmental Quality must establish by the specified deadline.