The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by introducing a new section, Part 4, focused on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) actions. It establishes that if a corporation is found liable for a violation related to PFAS and has annual gross revenues exceeding $5 million, the maximum fine for the violation will be 5% of those revenues or the maximum fine specified in the act, whichever is greater. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a grant program by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, to assist farmers impacted by PFAS contamination.
The grant program will provide financial support for various costs associated with PFAS contamination, including medical testing, land transactions, and remediation efforts. Farmers will need to apply for grants with detailed documentation of their operations and financial status. The bill also establishes the PFAS Impact Fund, which will receive funds from increased civil infractions related to PFAS violations and will be used to issue grants. The Department is tasked with administering the fund and implementing the necessary rules to facilitate the grant program.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 324.101, 324.90106