SB89
Log in to followAN ACT relating to environmental protection and declaring an emergency.
Amend KRS 224.1-010 to change the definition of "water" or "waters of the Commonwealth"; amend KRS 224.1-300 to provide that the definitions contained therein only apply to KRS 224.1-300 and 224.1-310; amend KRS 350.010 to define "long-term treatment"; amend KRS 350.060 to establish the means of calculating the additional bond amount required for a permit or permit increment for which the Energy and Environment Cabinet determines long-term treatment is required; EMERGENCY.
Introduced: February 4, 2025
Last action: March 28, 2025
In effect since March 27, 2025
This act carries an emergency clause, so it took effect as soon as it became law instead of waiting the usual 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).
Plain-language summary
This bill changes how Kentucky defines "waters of the Commonwealth" under environmental law and sets new rules for calculating bond amounts that mining companies must pay when their operations require long-term water treatment. By defining "long-term treatment" and spelling out how those bonds are calculated, the law aims to ensure money is set aside to cover ongoing environmental cleanup costs tied to mining permits. It took effect immediately upon passage as an emergency measure. Who it may affect: coal mining companies, environmental regulators, and communities near mining operations.
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Legislative History
Primary Sponsor
Co-sponsors (13)
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