Kentucky : 2025 Regular Session : BILL SB62
AN ACT relating to geoengineering.
geoengineering
Bill Details
Create new sections of KRS Chapter 512 to make findings and declarations regarding the dangers of atmospheric polluting activities and the Commonwealth's authority to prohibit geoengineering; define terms; make criminal atmospheric pollution a Class D felony; require that a person found guilty of criminal atmospheric pollution pay a civil penalty of not less than $500,000 in addition to all other penalties authorized by law; provide that each day that a person engages in criminal atmospheric pollution constitutes a separate offense; empower all peace officers of the Commonwealth to enforce the provisions of the section; require the arresting officer to issue a notice to the appropriate federal agency that those activities cannot be lawfully carried out in the Commonwealth.
Bill summary (AI generated)
**Bill Summary:** This Act aims to establish regulations concerning geoengineering practices within the Commonwealth of Kentucky by creating new sections in KRS Chapter 512. The legislation identifies geoengineering, particularly solar radiation modification and related atmospheric interventions, as activities that pose significant risks to public health, the environment, agricultural operations, and economic stability. **Key Provisions:** 1. **Prohibition of Geoengineering Activities:** - The Act prohibits the manipulation of the environment through atmospheric polluting interventions, defined to include practices such as stratospheric aerosol injection, cloud seeding, and solar radiation modification. 2. **Definitions:** - Various terms are defined, such as "atmospheric contaminant," which encompasses a broad range of substances that could harm the atmosphere, and "geoengineering," referring to intentional environmental manipulation. 3. **Criminal Offenses and Penalties:** - Engaging in any form of atmospheric polluting intervention is categorized as criminal atmospheric pollution, classified as a Class D felony. The penalties include a civil fine of not less than $500,000 for violations, with each day of violation constituting a separate offense. 4. **Enforcement:** - All peace officers in the Commonwealth are empowered to enforce this Act. Furthermore, citizens are encouraged to report suspected violations to law enforcement officials. 5. **Notification to Federal Agencies:** - Should any criminal atmospheric pollution occur under federal authorization, the arresting officer must notify the relevant federal agency that such activities cannot lawfully be conducted in Kentucky. This comprehensive approach seeks to protect the environment and public health from the perceived dangers of geoengineering practices, while establishing a framework for penalties and enforcement.
History
The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 8, 2025, and subsequently referred to the Committee on Committees and then to the Appropriations and Revenue Committee. This means it is currently undergoing review where committee members will assess its provisions, possible implications, and seek feedback. The next step is for the bill to be discussed and voted on within the Appropriations and Revenue Committee; if it passes this stage, it will move forward for further debate and voting in the full Senate. The bill has not yet passed or failed as it is still in the review process.
- Wed 08 Jan 2025 introduced in Senate
- Wed 08 Jan 2025 to Committee on Committees (S)
- Fri 10 Jan 2025 to Appropriations & Revenue (S)