North Dakota HB 1058 — AN ACT to create and enact a new chapter to title 23.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the regulation of aboveground storage tanks; to amend and reenact section 23.1-12-02 and subsection 7 of section 23.1-12-17 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the department of environmental quality and tank registration fees; and to provide a penalty.

North Dakota HB 1058, 69 session.

Summary in plain language

This legislation aims to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for aboveground storage tanks in North Dakota, focusing on protecting public health and the environment by ensuring proper management and monitoring to prevent leaks and spills of petroleum products.

Key provisions include defining aboveground storage tanks and detailing the responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Quality. The law mandates requirements for leak detection, record-keeping, and reporting of releases, along with corrective actions in case of leaks. It also stipulates the closure of tanks to prevent environmental contamination and establishes a permit fee system for registration and operation. The department is authorized to adopt rules regarding construction standards, inspections, and enforcement, including penalties for non-compliance.

The legislation impacts various stakeholders, particularly owners and operators of aboveground storage tanks, who must adhere to new regulations that may incur additional costs for monitoring and reporting. The general public stands to benefit from enhanced environmental protections and a reduced risk of leaks. Notable changes from existing law include a clearer definition of aboveground storage tanks and a structured regulatory framework, along with specific penalties for violations and the department's authority to take emergency actions in the event of imminent hazards.

Additionally, the legislation updates and clarifies definitions related to the management and regulation of petroleum storage tanks. It establishes guidelines for handling petroleum releases and outlines the financial responsibilities associated with corrective actions. Key provisions include a detailed list of definitions that clarify terms such as "corrective action," "release," and "owner," specifying who is responsible for addressing leaks and spills. The law also introduces a late fee of twenty-five dollars per tank for owners or operators who fail to register their tanks on time.

The legislation primarily affects individuals and businesses involved in the sale, operation, and management of petroleum storage tanks, along with the Department of Environmental Quality, which is tasked with enforcing these regulations. These updates aim to enhance accountability and streamline processes related to petroleum management, ultimately improving compliance and environmental protection in North Dakota.

This summary was written by a language model from the bill's own text and can be wrong. The full original text is linked below and is the record either way.