West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB282

Introduced
1/17/22  

Caption

DEP rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

Impact

The bill, by enabling the DEP to implement these emission standards, has the potential to update and improve the management of hazardous air pollutants in different sectors of the state. It could lead to stricter controls over emissions, which may help in mitigating environmental issues associated with air quality. The requirements set forth could also enhance compliance with federal environmental laws, positioning West Virginia as a more proactive state regarding environmental protection.

Summary

Senate Bill 282 aims to amend the West Virginia Code to allow the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to promulgate a legislative rule concerning emission standards for hazardous air pollutants. The bill specifically pertains to the authority granted to the DEP and is a response to a rule that was filed in the State Register. This legislative move seeks to ensure that West Virginia's regulatory framework is aligned with current emission standards, thereby possibly contributing to improved air quality and public health outcomes in the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB282 appears to be supportive, particularly among environmental advocacy groups and public health organizations that favor tighter regulations on air quality. However, there could also be opposition from business sectors concerned about the potential economic impact of more stringent regulations, highlighting an ongoing tension between environmental protection and economic considerations.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between environmental regulations and economic activities. Stakeholders may express concerns about the implications for industries that are significant sources of air pollutants. The discussions around this bill are likely to reflect a broader debate on how best to protect public health and the environment without imposing overly burdensome requirements on businesses operating within the state.

Companion Bills

WV HB4121

Similar To Authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate a legislative rule relating to Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

Previously Filed As

WV SB261

DEP rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

WV SB315

DEP rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

WV HB4210

Relating to authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate a legislative rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

WV HB2231

Relating to authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate a legislative rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

WV HB2236

Relating to authorizing the Department of Environmental Protection to promulgate a legislative rule relating to emission standards for hazardous air pollutants

WV HB435

Further providing for standards relating to hazardous air pollutants.

WV SJR24

This joint resolution nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency rule titled National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Rubber Tire Manufacturing (89 Fed. Reg. 94886) and published on November 29, 2024. The rule addresses the decision in Louisiana Environmental Action Network v. EPA (D.C. Cir. 2020) by implementing emissions standards for the rubber processing subcategory of the rubber tire manufacturing industry to ensure all emissions of hazardous air pollutants from sources in the source category are regulated.

WV SB262

DEP rule relating to cross-state air pollution to control annual nitrogen oxides emissions, annual sulfur dioxide emissions, and ozone season nitrogen oxides emissions

WV HJR61

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Rubber Tire Manufacturing".

WV SB1075

An act to amend Section 44391.2 of, and to add Sections 44391.8 and 44391.9 to, the Health and Safety Code, relating to air resources.

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