Bill > HB189

This bill revises the eligibility requirements for reimbursement from the petroleum storage tank release cleanup fund by changing the earliest date of eligible expenses from April 13, 1989, to January 1, 1984. The bill modifies the conditions under which owners or operators can receive reimbursement for costs associated with petroleum storage tank releases. Key provisions include expanding reimbursement eligibility for underground storage tanks and petroleum storage tanks that were in compliance with state and federal laws at the time of release discovery, and clarifying the types of expenses that can and cannot be reimbursed. The bill maintains existing restrictions on reimbursement, such as excluding tanks located at refineries, oil and gas production facilities, and tanks owned by the federal government or those associated with convicted violators. The reimbursement amounts remain the same, with different percentages and maximum limits depending on the type of tank and release. The bill also maintains the provision that reimbursement is subject to the fund having a monthly balance of at least $1.5 million. The changes aim to provide more flexibility and support for tank owners dealing with historical petroleum storage tank releases, with the effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2999