Disaster Fee Relief AB 645 (Frusetta)

SUMMARY:

AB 645 would allow the Department of Toxic Substances Control to adopt regulations to provide fee relief to disaster victims.

BACKGROUND:

California statutes impose various fees associated with the generation, transportation and disposal of hazardous waste. Buildings and structures are constructed of a variety of materials, some of which may contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos. In addition, many hazardous materials are stored in containers within most structures, ranging from household cleaners and paints to industrial raw materials. In the event of disasters such as floods, earthquakes, riots, or other disasters, destruction and damage to buildings, and any subsequent demolition resulting from the damage, may generate hazardous waste. When hazardous waste is generated, hazardous waste regulatory requirements are automatically triggered requiring proper handling and disposal. The fees associated with the handling of the hazardous waste are also triggered.

PROBLEM:

The necessity for fee relief was most recently demonstrated with the 1995 floods in Sacramento. Many homes and other structures suffered significant water damage, which in some cases required the removal of asbestos-containing debris. Other disasters, such as the 1994 Northridge earthquake and the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, inflicted significant damage as well, causing the unexpected generation of hazardous wastes, proving that the imposition of additional financial obligations in the form of fees is not in the best interest of the State.

ANALYSIS:

AB 645 would allow the Department of Toxic Substances Control to adopt regulations to provide fee relief to disaster victims.

CONTACT:

Patricia Grim, Legislative Director, Department of Toxic Substances Control (916) 324-0912