Bill > H935

This bill aims to reduce the number of Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) facilities in environmental justice communities by introducing new regulations and definitions. The bill defines key terms such as "Equal Protection" (ensuring no group disproportionately bears environmental pollution), "Environmental justice population" (a specific demographic designation), and "TRI Facility" (industrial or commercial facilities that release significant pollutants). It requires the Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to develop recommendations within 30 days of the bill's passage to decrease the siting and expansion of TRI facilities in neighborhoods with environmental justice populations. Furthermore, the Secretary must initiate a rule-making process within 180 days to establish a cap on the total number of TRI facilities in these neighborhoods. The rule-making process will prioritize reducing residents' exposure to toxins and ensuring access to a clean environment, regardless of race, income, national origin, or English language proficiency. The overall goal is to address environmental inequities and protect vulnerable communities from disproportionate environmental health risks.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H935