HB 220 Moves on to House Floor

Hi there,

HB 220 (Emissions Reduction Amendments) was heard this morning in the House Natural Resources Committee so we wanted to provide a quick update on where the bill stands.

The good news: HB 220 passed unanimously! This is a major step forward for significant improvements in our air quality.

However, the bill did pass with an amendment. The amendment requires the Division of Air Quality (DAQ) to identify and measure point sources of all halogens, including bromine. This is a departure from the original bill that would require DAQ to make a plan to reduce bromine emissions.

Our view of HB 220 was a two-step plan. Step one: identify sources of bromine pollution. Step two: require a plan to reduce those sources. The amendment now limits HB 220 to step one and states no plan for action.

Of course, we already know bromine emissions are an issue. Although the bill sets a plan for further studies, it’s disappointing this committee does not recognize the urgency for action on air quality.

What does this mean for the future of HB 220?

The bottom line: HB 220 is moving on to the House floor for a vote, which is great news!

We need to keep up the momentum — ask your representatives to support HB 220!

We will continue to work hard to ensure HB 220 enacts meaningful change.

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