Proposed Bill Requires Factories to Notify Officials During Crisis

Because of 2 deaths from a chemical plant explosion last year, a bill was proposed that would require industrial facilities to contact emergency responders within 15 minutes of a major accident.

Senate Bill 279, proposed by Governor Joe Manchin, states that in the case of an emergency, factories and plants must contact the state's Mine and Industrial Accident Operations Center within 15 minutes of the incident.

During recent hearings, lawmakers speculate whether the proposed bill gives enough leeway to companies to deal with the crisis and notify all of the appropriate people. Lawmakers also question the provision that would fine facility operators $100,000 if they fail to comply with the 15 minute deadline.

Senetor Bob Williams said “A small plant fails to meet the 15-minute deadline because they’re dealing with an emergency and are subject to a $100,000 fine is a subject of concern. You have very little leeway, so if you find in a situation make a call within 16 minutes instead of 15, it seems you are mandated by this bill to impose a $100,000 fine".

Committee members also were concerned that the ruling lacked a definition for the types of emergencies that would require factories to contact the center.

Due to the questions regarding the bill, committee chairman Mike Green assigned a sub-committee to further review the legislation and return with proposals for amendments.