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House adopts bill that supporters say clarifies DNR authority; opponents warn of weakening clean-water protections
Summary
House committee substitute for HB 3076, described by proponents as cleanup aligning state and federal rules and by opponents as a step that could weaken DNR authority over agricultural nonpoint pollution, passed after extended debate (yeas 102, nays 41).
House Bill 3076, presented as cleanup language to align Missouri law with federal regulations, passed the House on third reading by a recorded vote of 102-41 despite vigorous floor opposition.
The gentleman from Lincoln County, sponsor of the committee substitute, said the measure would exempt agricultural nonpoint sources from water permitting and noted that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) had never issued a permit for agricultural nonpoint sources. He described the change as aligning state and federal practice and as protecting farmers from unnecessary permitting burdens.
Opponents, including former DNR inspectors and members who cited constituent concerns, warned that "nonpoint source" is broad and could reduce DNR's ability to protect waterways, make it harder for neighbors to seek remedies and contribute to pollution problems such as nutrient runoff; one member said the change could be "dangerous" for water quality and urged a no vote.
Supporters argued the bill simply clarifies where permitting is required and removes needless regulation. After closing debate the House adopted the committee substitute 102 to 41.
