This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by adding a new section, 1506, which establishes specific limitations on the authority of agents from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. According to the new provisions, these agents are prohibited from entering private property without either a warrant or the explicit consent of the property owner or occupant.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that the open fields doctrine, which typically allows for warrantless searches of open fields, does not apply to searches conducted by these agents. This amendment aims to enhance property rights and ensure that individuals' privacy is respected in relation to environmental inspections and enforcement actions.
Statutes affected: Substitute (H-2): 324.101, 324.90106
House Introduced Bill: 324.101, 324.90106
As Passed by the House: 324.101, 324.90106