Bill > H0415

This bill revises the procedures for local governments to designate areas as "brownfields," which are sites that may have environmental contamination and contribute to community decline. It clarifies that brownfield redevelopment can be a significant part of community revitalization, especially in specific areas like community redevelopment areas or enterprise zones. The bill outlines new general procedures for brownfield designations, including requirements for local governments to notify the state and conduct public hearings, and allows property owners to request removal from a proposed designation. It also details criteria for designations proposed by entities other than local governments, such as requiring job creation or affordable housing development. Importantly, the bill provides significant liability relief for entities that successfully complete a brownfield site rehabilitation agreement, relieving them of further liability for remediation to the state and third parties, and also protecting them from liability for property damages related to the contamination addressed by the agreement.