by Carla Klein, Chapter Program Director
Legislative Bill filing begins December
In preparation for the 2006 Legislative Session the Ozark Chapter Legislative Committee has discussed issues we feel will become priorities this session. After reviewing the results of the 2005 bills and considering the current political climate, we set the following areas as initial priorities for the Ozark Chapter:
- CAFO bill/Local Control — opposing efforts to outlaw counties ability to pass health ordinances.
- Renewable Energy Standards — supporting statewide requirements for major producers to use renewable energy sources for a portion of energy produced.
- Anti-environmental regulation initiatives — opposing audit privilege, no stricter than federal, etc.
- TIFs/TDDs/Eminent domain — sprawl related issues to be addressed on a bill by bill basis. Since there is much room for abuse and these powers can be dangerous, we will work for additional protections
- Missouri Department of Conservation related measures — we will work with coalition partners to support continued funding for the MDC sales tax while working to ensure citizens have a voice over their policies
As we monitor the thousands of bills that are introduced each session, our priorities can change. The dedicated members of our Legislative Committee help to research bills and determine the Chapter’s positions on many complicated issues. We are fortunate to have such knowledgeable members involved in this critical process.
Every year we face repeated attempts to roll back environmental protections. “No stricter than” language, which limits important protections unique to our area; is already in a draft CAFO bill. Another industry favorite that comes back every year is the “dirty secrets” bill, or audit privilege. These bills would allow industry to be immune from prosecution of environmental violations as long as they self-report. Not only do they get a “pollute free” card they would be allowed to close their records to the public. The Sierra Club, through the strength of our members has successfully beat back these bills every year. We will remain vigilant in our offense.
Statewide Renewable Energy Standards, RPS will be a priority this session. With heating prices at an all time high and the onslaught of dirty coal plants targeting Missouri this is the year for renewable energy standards to become a reality.
We are working with Representative Jenee Lowe on a bill to be introduced early in the session. The bill requires nominal increases in renewable energy: one percent by 2008, three percent by 2012, six percent by 2016 and ten percent by 2020. The reason for the lesser amount is to combat industry arguments that the goals are unattainable. Having RES on the books in Missouri is important because it is a major consideration for renewable energy companies when conducting feasibility studies. We have strong coalition support working on its passage.
The upcoming session will be exciting and challenging. Please get involved by signing up for the OZARK CHAPTER LEGISLATIVE ACTION ALERT LISTSERV.