The bill amends the Kansas Drycleaner Environmental Response Act to update provisions concerning penalties, deductibles, and fees for drycleaning facilities. Notably, the deductible for corrective actions will increase from $5,000 to $10,000 for owners seeking reimbursement from the fund, effective July 1, 2025. The bill also raises the environmental surcharge on laundering and drycleaning services from 2.5% to 5% of gross receipts, while providing exemptions for certain services, such as those from coin-operated devices. Additionally, it establishes a maximum penalty of $10,000 for non-compliance with tax and fee regulations.

In terms of operational responsibilities, the bill clarifies definitions, such as "chlorinated drycleaning solvent," and outlines the department's role in managing contamination, emphasizing a reactive rather than proactive approach to site contamination. The fee structure for drycleaning solvents is modified, setting a maximum fee of $5.50 per gallon and requiring distributors to obtain registration numbers from facility owners. The bill also mandates annual reporting on fund receipts and disbursements and repeals outdated statutes related to environmental fees and taxes, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of the environmental response framework for drycleaning operations in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-34
As Amended by Senate Committee: 65-34