WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1969

Requires a notice of intent to excavate to the department of natural resources to check whether the excavation is in a site contaminated with hazardous waste

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Clemens

Missouri requires excavators to notify the state before digging to check for hazardous waste contamination, preventing worker exposure and environmental damage.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
#environmentalprotection #naturalresources #departmentof #utilities #waste-hazardous
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1969

Legislative bill overview

HB 1969 requires excavators in Missouri to file a notice of intent with the Department of Natural Resources before beginning excavation work, allowing the agency to determine whether the site contains hazardous waste contamination. This creates a mandatory notification and clearance process for excavation activities statewide.

Why is this important

Excavation in contaminated sites can expose workers to hazardous materials, spread contamination to new areas, and create significant public health and environmental risks. This bill aims to prevent costly accidents, environmental damage, and remediation expenses by catching potential hazardous waste sites before excavation begins.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden: Excavators—including homeowners, farmers, and small construction companies—may face delays and administrative costs from the notice requirement, potentially affecting routine digging projects
  • Definition scope: The bill's language doesn't specify which excavations are covered (depth thresholds, project size, private vs. commercial), creating uncertainty about compliance requirements
  • Resource capacity: The Department of Natural Resources may lack capacity to timely review all excavation notices, potentially creating bottlenecks that delay legitimate projects

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.