The bill establishes regulations for carbon dioxide injection wells in Alabama, specifically amending Section 9-17-162 of the Code of Alabama 1975. Key provisions include requiring carbon dioxide storage facility operators to notify local governments when submitting approval petitions to the board, allowing local governments to participate in hearings regarding these petitions, and mandating that operators obtain consent from a significant majority (66 and two-thirds percent) of pore space owners before proceeding with storage. Additionally, the bill introduces new language that mandates operators to limit adverse impacts on nonconsenting landowners and to seek written consent from coal mine operators in specific areas before operating.

Furthermore, the bill adds Section 9-17-167, which imposes fees on carbon dioxide stored in facilities, starting at seven cents per ton for both the State General Fund and the local county or municipality where the injection occurs. The bill also establishes the Study Commission on Carbon Dioxide Storage Facility Fees, tasked with evaluating current practices and recommending legislation regarding these fees. The commission will report its findings to the Legislature by the fifteenth legislative day of the 2027 Regular Session. The provisions of the bill will take effect on October 1, 2026, while the commission will begin its work on June 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Engrossed: 9-17-162, 9-17-167, 9-17-162