Bill > SB685

This bill amends the Air Pollution Control Act to enhance environmental protection and industrial accountability by introducing two key provisions. First, the bill requires major facilities (large industrial sites) to develop and maintain a municipal notification plan that ensures local governments are promptly informed about industrial equipment breakdowns or accidents that could pose significant health risks. The notification plan must include timely communication (within 12 hours), establish efficient notification methods, provide community risk mitigation guidance, undergo yearly updates to maintain current contact procedures, and be subject to potential revisions in coordination with local air pollution control agencies. Second, the bill increases civil penalties for violations of air pollution regulations, with penalties escalating over time: $10,000 per day in the first three years, $15,000 in the fourth year, $25,000 in the fifth year, and $37,500 per day for subsequent violations. When assessing penalties, the Department of Environmental Protection will consider factors such as the violation's willfulness, environmental damage, financial benefits gained, future deterrence, compliance history, violation severity, and cooperation in resolving the issue. The bill will take effect 60 days after enactment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=685