It’s been a wild year on both the state and federal levels of government and the Georgia General Assembly has returned to session. It’s difficult to keep up legislation on a normal year, much less remember during a pandemic, so GCV is here to provide you with updates on several key environmental legislative issues.
House Bill 545 – HB 545 would change Georgia’s long-standing Right to Farm Act in favor of corporate agriculture. It would restrict landowners from filing nuisance complaints to agricultural operations if the operation has been in place for two years, weakening the ability of farmers and landowners to protect their property. This means that any new agricultural operations could move in, stay for two years and then begin to cause problems without worrying about any backlash from their neighbors.
Status:
HB 545 is currently tabled in the Senate. However the possibility of it’s revival seems likely. We encourage voters to let legislators know that this bill should not be reintroduced.
GCV opposes HB 545. Take action by letting your legislators know that we can’t allow this to happen. Go to https://www.protectgeorgia.org/rural-property.html#/194/ and add your voice.
Senate Bill 426 – SB 426 is a bill designed to force companies to notify state officials about any unpermitted release of chemicals used to sterilize medical equipment within 24 hours of the incident. This is especially pertinent with the ethylene oxide problems facing Fulton and Cobb counties. Extended exposure to ethylene oxide can cause irritations to the eyes, skin, respiratory system and increases the risk of cancer in humans.
Status:
SB 426 is currently in the opposite chamber’s second hearing.
GCV supports SB 426. Let legislators know that they need to pass SB 426 and protect our communities.
Senate Bill 123 – SB 123 would raise fees on dumping coal ash from $1 per ton to $2.50 a ton, the equivalent fee for everyday waste. This would help address problems with coal ash, as well as discourage importation of coal ash from other states.
Status:
SB 123 is currently in the opposite chamber’s second hearing.
GCV supports SB 123. Take action by letting your legislators know that we need to stop coal ash. Go to https://www.protectgeorgia.org/take-action.html#/124 and add your voice.
House Bill 929 – HB 929 is aimed at addressing coal ash runoff and water contamination by requiring long term monitoring of groundwater near coal ash ponds. This would provide another level of protection for families near coal ash ponds and help to ensure that another “Juliette” event does not occur in Georgia again.
Status:
HB 929 is currently in the opposite chamber.
GCV supports HB 929. Take action by letting your legislators know that we need to protect residents and families from the dangers of coal ash contamination.