HB97 Summary

• Expands the definition of "gas" subject to State Oil and Gas Board regulation to include carbon oxides, ammonia, hydrogen, nitrogen, and noble gases in addition to natural gas and other hydrocarbons.

• Declares that underground storage of carbon oxides, ammonia, hydrogen, nitrogen, and noble gases is in the public interest and welfare of Alabama and constitutes a public purpose.

• Grants the State Oil and Gas Board jurisdiction and authority to regulate the operation and abandonment of underground storage facilities, including authority to require reasonable bonds with sufficient surety or other financial security for compliance with board rules and orders.

• Authorizes the board to adopt rules establishing fees and charges to defray the costs of regulating underground storage facility operations and abandonments.

• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.