Whereas, the risks associated with uncontrolled tire stockpiles in the State demand a comprehensive plan to abate those stockpiles and reduce the risk to the public and the environment; and

Whereas, the State is presently limited in its ability to contract with companies that conduct tire removal and site remediation activities; and

Whereas, the limitations on entering long-term contracts with tire abatement and site remediation contractors have interfered with tire abatement and remediation projects; and

Whereas, it is in the best interest of the State to develop a plan that will encourage and enable private contractors to undertake long-term tire abatement and remediation projects; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Long-term funding plan for the removal of tire dumps. Resolved: That the Commissioner of Environmental Protection and the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall devise a system for entering into long-term contracts with tire abatement and site remediation contractors, including mechanisms to ensure funding of the clean-up and reclamation activities. The commissioners shall report the findings of this investigation and recommendations to support the long-term cleanup and funding to the Joint Standing Committee on Natural Resources by January 15, 2000. The commissioners' report must also identify any statutory or regulatory changes necessary to permit the Department of Environmental Protection to enter into long-term contracts with tire abatement and site remediation contractors and mechanisms to ensure funding of the clean-up and reclamation activities. The Joint Standing Committee on Natural Resources may report out legislation based upon the report to the Second Regular Session of the 119th Legislature.

SUMMARY

This resolve requires the Commissioner of Environmental Protection and the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development to devise a system for entering into long-term contracts with tire abatement and site remediation contractors.