HB5637 Summary

• Expands definition of "new facility" to include existing facilities that expand or modify operations to increase animal unit capacity, subjecting them to stricter regulations.

• Requires facility owners to notify property owners within setback areas within 10 days of Department approval by certified mail, including information about public hearing petition rights.

• Changes "informational meetings" to mandatory "public hearings" for facilities with 1,000+ animal units or those using lagoons; county board recommendations against construction become binding prohibitions rather than advisory.

• Prohibits man-made conduits from surface waters to livestock facilities constructed after the bill's effective date and requires waste management plans for facilities with 1,000+ animal units to be submitted to Department and made public.

• Adds new civil action provisions allowing any person to sue for violations of compliance orders, setback requirements, or standards; provides for enforcement of non-discretionary duties and awards of damages and attorney fees.