The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, focusing on the management and funding of underground storage tank cleanup and petroleum product inspection programs. It introduces new definitions and clarifies existing terms, such as replacing "owner" and "operator" with the more inclusive "claimant." Key financial provisions include a cap of $5,000,000 annually for petroleum product inspection programs and a $3,000,000 allocation for the bureau of fire services. The bill also establishes a reimbursement mechanism for local governments managing contaminated media, contingent upon specific conditions, and modifies eligibility criteria for financial assistance related to corrective actions for confirmed releases from refined petroleum underground storage tanks.

Additionally, the bill outlines new deductible structures for claims based on the number of approved claims at a facility, with amounts set at $2,000 for the first claim, $10,000 for the second, and $20,000 for subsequent claims. It emphasizes the responsibilities of claimants regarding documentation and compliance with financial responsibility requirements, while also introducing stricter penalties for fraudulent claims. The attorney general and county prosecutors are granted enhanced authority to seek compliance and investigate violations, with civil fines established for noncompliance. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the regulatory framework for underground storage tanks, enhance environmental protection, and ensure accountability in the management of petroleum contamination.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-2): 324.21502, 324.21510
House Introduced Bill: 324.21502, 324.21510