Bill > HB3076

This bill clarifies that agricultural nonpoint sources, which are diffuse sources of pollution like runoff from farms, and agricultural storm water discharges, meaning water that runs off land after rain or snowmelt from farming activities, are exempt from Missouri's clean water permitting requirements. This exemption applies to return flows from irrigated agriculture, which is water that leaves land after being used for irrigation. These agricultural activities will not be considered unlawful unless they enter state waters and cause harm to public health, safety, or the environment. The bill defines agricultural storm water discharges and return flows broadly to include runoff, drainage, and infiltration from standard farming practices, including crop cultivation and livestock production. However, this exemption does not affect regulations concerning concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), which are facilities where large numbers of animals are kept in confined areas.