The bill amends existing Kansas statutes regarding the management of hazardous materials, specifically focusing on the responsibilities associated with the application of commercial pesticides. It introduces an exemption for property owners in Johnson County from remediation costs or other liabilities related to hazardous substances, particularly those linked to legally registered pesticidal commercial chemical products applied by the United States Army prior to 2005. The new language specifies that no state agency or subdivision can impose cleanup orders or seek recovery of costs from these property owners unless the property is converted to residential use or used as a daycare facility. Additionally, property owners must include a notice in any deed transferring such property about the potential presence of these chemicals.

The bill also amends the powers of the secretary regarding site cleanups and the authority to issue orders for compliance. It clarifies that responsible parties for hazardous substance discharges must bear the costs of investigation and remediation unless exempted under the new provisions. The amendments aim to streamline the process for property owners while ensuring that necessary protections for public health and the environment remain in place. The bill repeals the previous sections of K.S.A. 65-3453 and 65-3455, consolidating the updated regulations into a more coherent framework.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-3453, 65-3455
{As Amended by House Committee of the Whole}: 65-3453, 65-3455
As Amended by Senate Committee: 65-3453, 65-3455