The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating Section 8715, which pertains to water quality protection fees associated with pesticide and fertilizer registrations. It establishes a fixed annual water quality protection fee of $270.00 for each product registered, with a late fee of $100.00 applicable for renewal registrations if the fee is submitted after June 30. Additionally, it introduces an extra $100.00 water quality protection fee for each brand and product name of specialty fertilizers or soil conditioners registered.

Significant deletions from the previous law include the removal of a tiered fee structure for fertilizer manufacturers, which previously charged based on the nitrogen content and tonnage sold. The bill also changes the expiration date of this section from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2030, and modifies the language regarding the suspension of fee collection if funds are used for purposes outside those specified in the act. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the fee structure while ensuring continued funding for water quality protection initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 324.8715
As Passed by the Senate: 324.8715