The proposed bill seeks to strengthen environmental protections by establishing "children's health protection zones," which are defined as areas extending 5,280 feet from school property lines. Within these zones, oil and gas operators are required to create an inventory and map of their operations, develop a leak detection and response plan, and conduct water quality testing. The bill imposes strict penalties for noncompliance, including daily fines of up to $30,000 and a maximum penalty of $3 million for violations assessed after a hearing. It also empowers the oil conservation division to enforce these regulations, ensuring that children's health is prioritized in areas near oil and gas activities.

Key amendments to existing law include the introduction of new definitions related to the bill's scope, such as "children's health protection zone," "operator," and "production facility." The legislation makes it unlawful for any person to knowingly violate the provisions of the Oil and Gas Act, with penalties including fines and potential imprisonment. Additionally, starting August 1, 2025, no drilling permits will be granted in these designated zones unless specific economic conditions are met. The bill also mandates operators to submit a protection zone inventory, conduct water quality testing, and notify nearby property owners before drilling, thereby enhancing the regulatory framework to protect children's health from potential pollution associated with oil and gas operations.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 70-2-33, 70-2-12, 70-2-31
EN substitute: 70-2-33, 70-2-12, 70-2-31, 74-2-2, 74-2-5