WV DEP Seeking Public Comments on Storage Tank Regulation Rules

The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection wants public input on what should be included in the rules to regulate aboveground storage tanks, according to an agency release.
 
The release says as a requirement of the newly passed Senate Bill 373, also known as “The Water Resources Protection Act,” and to others simply as “The Tank Bill,” the agency must draft rules for a new Aboveground Storage Tank Regulatory Program in time for lawmakers to consider them during the 2015 legislative session.

The DEP says it will file its proposals as an emergency rule this fall.
 
The release states normally, public comment is taken after rules have been drafted. However, because this program is new to the DEP, Cabinet Secretary Randy Huffman decided to approach the rule-making process for the tank program a little differently.
 
“We would appreciate input from industry groups, experts, any member of the public with an idea about what needs to be addressed in the rules,” Huffman said in a written statement. “We will consider that input as we draft the regulations.”

Ideas can be submitted to the agency via email or written mail by May 15.

The proposals are coming about due to a January chemical spill into the Elk River, that left 300,000 West Virginians without safe drinking water for several days.

More information on how to submit public comment can be found here.