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. It requires oil and gas operators to create an inventory and map of these zones, develop leak response and detection plans, and conduct water quality testing. Operations that violate the Air Quality Control Act within these zones will be suspended, and the bill introduces significant penalties for noncompliance, including daily fines of up to $30,000 and a maximum penalty of $3 million for violations assessed after a hearing. New definitions, such as "children's health protection zone," "operator," and "school," are included to clarify the bill's scope.

Additionally, the bill amends the Oil and Gas Act to prohibit drilling permits in designated children's health protection zones starting August 1, 2025, unless specific economic conditions are met. Operators are mandated to submit detailed inventories and maps, conduct water quality testing, and notify nearby property owners before drilling. The bill also enhances air quality regulations by introducing new definitions and requiring emissions detection systems in these zones. Operators must implement leak detection and response plans by specified deadlines, with the department overseeing compliance and conducting public workshops. Overall, the legislation prioritizes public health and environmental safety, instituting strict operational measures to mitigate pollution and ensure accountability.

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