The bill SB321 amends the regulations governing the Alabama Drycleaning Environmental Response Trust Fund Advisory Board, significantly altering the operational requirements of the fund. Key changes include the deletion of the requirement for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management to prevent other governmental units from engaging in contamination issues related to drycleaning facilities. Additionally, the minimum balance required in the fund is reduced from one million dollars to two hundred fifty thousand dollars, allowing for greater flexibility in fund management. The bill also modifies the election process for drycleaning facility owners and operators regarding their coverage under the fund, stipulating that those who opt out will permanently waive any associated benefits.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes the prioritization of remedial activities that mitigate risks to human health and the environment, replacing the term "Such" with "The" to clarify this priority. It introduces new performance standards for new drycleaning and wholesale distribution facilities, mandates the prohibition of wastewater releases, and requires closed delivery systems for drycleaning agents. The bill also sets a deadline for retrofitting existing facilities to comply with these standards by May 24, 2005, and outlines the financial responsibilities of owners and operators, including changes in terminology from "funds" to "monies." Additionally, it specifies that no payments will be made for costs incurred prior to May 24, 2000, and establishes criteria for site eligibility for fund distribution, explicitly excluding certain contaminated sites. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-30D-4, 22-30D-7
Enrolled: 22-30D-4, 22-30D-7