Bill S. 893 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws concerning the State Underground Petroleum Environmental Response Bank Act of 1988. Key changes include redefining "pipeline facility" to align with federal regulations, adjusting allowable costs for site rehabilitation from the Superb Account, and establishing specific years for the renewal fee of underground storage tanks. The bill proposes to increase the maximum compensation for site rehabilitation from one million dollars to two million dollars per occurrence, while clarifying that punitive damages will not be covered by the Superb Financial Responsibility Fund. Additionally, it outlines the process for transferring funds between the Superb Account and the Superb Financial Responsibility Fund to ensure adequate resources for site rehabilitation and third-party claims.

The legislation also introduces a tiered fee structure for tank registration and annual renewal, with fees increasing from $100 to $200 in 2029 and further increases in subsequent years, directing additional revenue to the Superb Account. It mandates that no registration certificate will be issued unless all past fees and penalties are settled and introduces penalties for late payments. Furthermore, the bill establishes a fifteen-member Superb Advisory Committee to oversee the program's implementation and administration, which will include representatives from various stakeholders. The committee is tasked with reviewing the program's effectiveness and submitting annual reports to the department and the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
02/04/2026: 44-2-20, 44-2-40, 44-2-60, 44-2-130, 44-2-150
Latest Version: 44-2-20, 44-2-40, 44-2-60, 44-2-130, 44-2-150