The bill amends and reenacts various sections of the Code of West Virginia, specifically focusing on the authority of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to promulgate legislative rules related to environmental standards. It authorizes the DEP to establish rules concerning hazardous waste management, ambient air quality standards, performance standards for new stationary sources, and control of air pollution from hazardous waste facilities, among others. The bill also directs the DEP to amend existing legislative rules, including those related to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program and water quality standards.

Significant amendments include the introduction of a new subdivision regarding the removal of Category A use designations for water bodies, which requires a demonstration that the water body does not support public water supply use. Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions related to fecal coliform levels in the Ohio River and updates the duration and conditions for underground injection control permits. The bill emphasizes public participation by mandating a 45-day comment period for proposed use removals and ensuring that draft permits are shared with permittees prior to public notice.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 64-3-1
Committee Substitute: 64-3-1
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 64-3-1
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 64-3-1