Overview: SF 338, a bill relating to duties of the department of natural resources related to air quality, has been rereferred to the Natural Resources committee. The bill was introduced on February 18, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The main goal of this bill is to enhance the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) responsibilities regarding air quality management, including reporting requirements, certifications, data gathering, and rule references.
Key Provisions:
- Requires the DNR to submit an annual report to the legislature on air quality, including greenhouse gas emissions inventories and trends.
- Mandates the DNR to establish a certification program for air quality monitoring equipment and personnel.
- Directs the DNR to gather and maintain data on air quality, emissions, and pollution sources.
- Authorizes the DNR to adopt rules related to air quality standards, monitoring, and enforcement.
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- The Department of Natural Resources will be responsible for implementing the new air quality management duties.
- Businesses and industries that emit air pollutants may be impacted by the new certification and reporting requirements.
- The general public will benefit from improved air quality monitoring and transparency.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill is currently rereferred to the Natural Resources committee for further consideration. The next step would be a committee hearing and potential amendments before the bill can move forward in the legislative process.
