The bill amends existing Kansas law regarding the responsibility for costs associated with the application of commercial pesticides, specifically providing an exemption for certain property owners in Johnson County. It modifies K.S.A. 65-3453 to prevent state agencies from issuing cleanup orders or seeking recovery of costs related to properties previously owned by the United States Army, as long as these properties are nonresidential and were treated with legally registered pesticides before 2005. The bill also includes provisions that require property owners to include a notice in any deed transferring such property, alerting future owners of the potential presence of these chemicals if the property is ever converted to residential use or used as a daycare facility.

Additionally, the bill amends K.S.A. 65-3455, which outlines the responsibilities of individuals or entities that discharge hazardous substances. It maintains that responsible parties must cover the costs of investigation and remediation unless exempted under the new provisions. The bill repeals the existing sections of K.S.A. 65-3453 and 65-3455, consolidating the changes into a more streamlined legal framework. The intent of the legislature is for these provisions to be applied retroactively, ensuring that past actions are accounted for under the new regulations.

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