The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to address the geologic storage of carbon dioxide, creating a new Division 2 in Article 6, Chapter 17, Title 9. It defines "pore space" and establishes that the right to this subsurface space is vested in surface property owners, who can convey it separately unless it has been previously severed or excluded. The bill clarifies that mineral rights conveyances do not include pore space rights unless specifically stated and sets a deadline of October 1, 2024, for the applicability of certain provisions. It also outlines the approval process for carbon dioxide storage facilities, requiring consent from a majority of pore space owners and allowing the State Oil and Gas Board to amalgamate storage rights under certain conditions. Additionally, the bill creates the Underground Carbon Dioxide Storage Facility Administrative Fund and Trust Fund for the regulation of active and closed storage facilities, respectively, and grants the board rulemaking authority.

HB327 further details the responsibilities and liabilities of storage operators, including the title to injected carbon dioxide and the conditions for obtaining a certificate of project closure and completion. The state assumes title and liability for the carbon dioxide and monitoring equipment upon issuance of the certificate, releasing the operator from further obligations. The bill establishes a fund for the management of storage facilities, with provisions for its investment and use. It also authorizes the Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources to lease pore space for storage purposes. The bill indicates that the Senate passed it on May 2, 2024, and it is set to become effective on October 1, 2024. There are no deletions mentioned in the provided text.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9-17-160, 9-17-150, 9-17-151, 9-17-152, 9-17-153, 9-17-154, 9-17-155, 9-17-156, 9-17-157
Engrossed: 9-17-160, 9-17-150, 9-17-151, 9-17-152, 9-17-153, 9-17-154, 9-17-155, 9-17-156, 9-17-157
Enrolled: 9-17-160, 9-17-150, 9-17-151, 9-17-152, 9-17-153, 9-17-154, 9-17-155, 9-17-156, 9-17-157