HB 170 changesEstablish process to regulate carbon capture, storage technology

What changed

+3708 / −2249 words · LargeConfidence: high

This version removes the entire statutory framework for regulating carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Ohio. The changes systematically eliminate definitions, permit requirements, operational standards, safety provisions, and compliance obligations that would have established a comprehensive CCS regulatory program. Key deletions include the foundational definitions of carbon dioxide wells and related terms, the UIC Class VI permitting process aligned with the Safe Drinking Water Act, mandatory liability insurance requirements (including a $15 million minimum coverage provision), operational standards for well drilling and monitoring, protections for existing oil and gas interests, water supply safeguards, agricultural drainage system protections, and the statutory consolidation process for storage facilities. The removals also eliminate safety requirements, setback distances from dwellings (200 feet), waste disposal mandates, and cost estimation obligations for well closure and post-injection care. Rather than amending or refining the carbon capture regulatory framework, this version appears to withdraw the state's proposed regulatory authority over CCS operations entirely.

Change log

• SECTION 1 > (3)

  removedhigh confidence

  Removal of prohibition on inefficient storing of oil or gas

  The bill removes language that previously identified 'inefficient storing of oil or gas' as a prohibited practice or concern. This deletion eliminates a specific regulatory standard or criterion related to storage efficiency. The removal appears to be part of broader restructuring of the section's provisions.

• SECTION 1

  removedhigh confidence

  Repeals enabling language for carbon dioxide well regulation and definitions

  This section previously provided the foundational definitions for Chapter 1509 (oil and gas regulation) and cross-referenced sections establishing a carbon dioxide well regulatory framework. The removal eliminates the statutory framework that would have defined "well" to include "a carbon dioxide well, as defined in section 1509.71" and references to new sections 1509.71–1509.79 (carbon capture regulation) and 5301.57–5301.60 (related property rights). This removal effectively prevents the establishment of a carbon capture and storage regulatory program that the bill's other sections would have created.

• SECTION 1 > (1)

  removedhigh confidence

  Definition of 'physical waste' removed from statute

  This section previously defined 'physical waste' by reference to its general understanding in the oil and gas industry. The entire definition has been removed from the statute. No replacement or alternative definition is provided in the shown text.

• SECTION 1 > (2)

  removed