The proposed bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article, 22-1B-1, which mandates public notification of hazardous environmental spills. Under this legislation, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is required to notify the public within 24 hours of any reported spill, discharge, or release of hazardous substances into state waters. The bill defines hazardous substances broadly, encompassing a range of materials that could pose risks to health or the environment. It outlines the necessary information to be included in public notifications, such as the spill's location, substance type and quantity, potential impacts, precautionary measures, and corrective actions being taken.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that public notifications must be disseminated through various channels, including the DEP's official website, social media, local media outlets, and emergency alert systems. It also imposes a requirement on entities responsible for spills to immediately notify the DEP and the West Virginia Emergency Management Division, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, the DEP is tasked with maintaining an online public database to track spills and their remediation efforts, ensuring transparency and accessibility for the general public.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-1B-1