RELATING TO UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 8 co-sponsors

Senate Bill 639 establishes strict regulations for underground storage tanks in Arkansas, enhancing safety, environmental protection, and local government oversight.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#confirmedrelease #departmentofhealth #environmentalrestoration #jetfuel #rules #undergroundstoragetanksandtanksystems #waterquality

# Summary of Senate Bill 639: Relating to Underground Storage Tanks ## Purpose and Intent Senate Bill 639 aims to address the management and regulation of underground storage tanks (USTs) in Arkansas, particularly focusing on the environmental impacts associated with these tanks. The bill seeks to enhance public health and safety by establishing clear standards for the operation, maintenance, and decommissioning of USTs, especially those used for storing jet fuel and other hazardous substances. ## Key Provisions The bill introduces several important provisions, including: 1. **Regulatory Framework**: - Establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the permitting and operation of underground storage tanks. - Requires the Department of Health to develop rules and standards for USTs to ensure environmental protection and public safety. 2. **Environmental Restoration**: - Mandates the assessment and remediation of sites where USTs have been confirmed to release hazardous substances. - Ensures that any contamination is addressed promptly to protect water quality and public health. 3. **Decommissioning Standards**: - Sets forth requirements for the safe decommissioning of USTs, including financial assurances to cover the costs of decommissioning and remediation. - Establishes criteria for the proper closure of USTs to prevent future environmental hazards. 4. **Local Government Involvement**: - Allows local legislative bodies to adopt regulations concerning USTs, provided they align with state and federal laws. - Encourages local governments to engage in the oversight of UST operations within their jurisdictions. 5. **Public Health and Safety**: - Emphasizes the need to minimize adverse effects on the environment and community health from UST operations. - Requires operators to provide adequate information to landowners regarding the safety and financial aspects of UST operations. ## Affected Parties The bill will primarily affect: - **Operators of Underground Storage Tanks**: Entities that own or manage USTs will need to comply with new regulations and standards. - **Local Governments**: They will have the authority to implement additional regulations and oversight mechanisms. - **Landowners**: Those whose properties are near USTs will benefit from enhanced safety measures and transparency regarding potential risks. - **Public Health and Environmental Agencies**: The Department of Health and other regulatory bodies will be tasked with enforcing the new standards and ensuring compliance. ## Procedural Aspects - **Introduced**: April 09, 2025 - **Current Status**: Reported from the Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection (EEP) with amendments, recommended for passage on Second Reading, and referred to the Committee on Water and Land (WAL). - **Legislative Timeline**: The bill has undergone multiple readings and committee reviews, with significant amendments made to address concerns raised during discussions. ## Conclusion Senate Bill 639 represents a proactive approach to managing underground storage tanks in Arkansas, aiming to safeguard public health and the environment while providing a clear regulatory framework for operators and local governments. The bill's passage could lead to improved safety standards and environmental protections related to USTs across the state.