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 new 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.

The bill also makes significant deletions, including the previous fee structure for fertilizer manufacturers, which was based on the nitrogen content and tonnage sold. Instead, it simplifies the fee structure and mandates that all collected fees, along with any interest or dividends, be sent to the state treasurer for crediting to the appropriate fund. Furthermore, the bill changes the expiration date of this section from December 31, 2025, to December 31, 2030, and clarifies that the department has the authority to audit records related to the fees.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 324.8715