Senate Bill 776 proposes the repeal of the existing dry cleaner environmental response program and its associated fund and council, while establishing a new initiative called the Revitalize Wisconsin program, which will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The new program aims to provide financial aid in the form of grants or direct services to local governments, dry cleaners, and private parties to address hazardous substance discharges and environmental pollution on their properties. The bill outlines specific criteria for aid eligibility, including provisions for sites previously assisted under the now-repealed program, brownfields, and properties affected by environmental pollution.

The bill includes several amendments and new provisions, such as the creation of sections 20.370 (6) (et) and (eu) to facilitate environmental aid and waste removal, respectively. It also establishes a matching requirement for applicants receiving aid and specifies activities eligible for funding, including hazardous substance removal and environmental assessments. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes related to environmental management funding and repeals several outdated provisions, ensuring that the new program aligns with current environmental needs and practices.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 15.347(2), 15.347, 20.370(4)(eq), 20.370, 20.370(6)(eq), 20.370(9)(nq), 20.566(1)(r), 20.566, 25.17(1)(d), 25.17, 25.43(2s), 25.43, 25.46(2m), 25.46, 25.48, 77.9964(3), 77.9964, 292.65(14), 292.65