Mississippi lawmakers consider changes to hazardous waste injection laws

The Mississippi Senate Energy Committee has advanced a bill that could alter the state’s regulations on underground injection of hazardous waste. The legislation, HB 965, aims to allow existing wells to continue operation and authorize new wells, which would be drilled at least 5,000 feet below drinking water sources.

Current law prohibits certain-sized businesses from using underground wells for hazardous waste disposal but permits large companies to place waste on their property. Mississippi has 1,243 Class II wells used primarily for oil and gas wastewater, along with four Class I non-hazardous and four Class I hazardous wells, according to industry sources.

Supporters, including the industry, say the bill maintains current regulations and simply permits more companies to operate wells, asserting that these wells are subject to strict standards. Richard Harrell, operations director at FC&E Engineering, stated that the bill does not change what waste can go into the wells but who can operate them.

Opponents, including some senators, raised concerns about the bill potentially allowing out-of-state companies to inject hazardous waste into Mississippi wells. During debate, State Senator Bart Williams asked whether nuclear or toxic waste would be permitted, to which Harrell responded negatively. Williams emphasized his concern about the bill’s broader implications and proposed an amendment to restrict hazardous waste disposal to Mississippi-based companies. The amendment was adopted.

The bill cleared the House on February 11 with a 72-48 vote and is now under consideration in the Senate. Critics worry that loosening regulations could lead to increased waste imports, while supporters argue it will help local businesses reduce disposal costs.

Source: Original Article