Alerting Localities of Environmental Risks and Threats Act of 2021

Alerting Localities of Environmental Risks and Threats Act of 2021

This bill requires the owner or operator of a facility where hazardous chemicals are produced, used, or stored to hold a public meeting within 72 hours of the release of an extremely hazardous substance. The owner or operator must publish a notice in a local newspaper, giving at least 24 hours of notice before the public meeting. Such notice must be posted at a local library, other local government buildings, and on the facility's public website.

The bill also requires the owner or operator of a facility to hold an annual public meeting, where specified information regarding the extremely hazardous substances at the facility must be disclosed. Notice for such meeting must be published in a local newspaper at least a week in advance of the meeting. The bill provides for a civil penalty if such public meeting and notice requirements are not met.

Bill 117 HR 861, also known as the Alerting Localities of Environmental Risks and Threats Act of 2021, aims to improve communication and coordination between federal agencies and local governments regarding environmental risks and threats. The bill requires federal agencies to notify local governments of any potential environmental risks or threats in their area, such as pollution, hazardous waste, or natural disasters.

The bill also establishes a task force to develop guidelines for federal agencies to follow when notifying local governments of environmental risks. This task force will include representatives from federal agencies, local governments, and environmental organizations to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to communication.

Additionally, the bill requires federal agencies to provide technical assistance to local governments to help them respond to environmental risks and threats. This assistance may include training, resources, and funding to help local governments mitigate the impact of environmental risks on their communities. Overall, Bill 117 HR 861 seeks to improve communication and collaboration between federal agencies and local governments to better protect communities from environmental risks and threats. By ensuring that local governments are informed and supported in their efforts to address environmental challenges, this bill aims to promote environmental safety and resilience at the local level.