HB140 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Alan BakerRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Solid waste disposal, definition of landfill provided, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.

Summary

HB 140 expands Alabama's landfill definition to include landfills covered with materials other than earth, with such alternative covers needing formal approval.

What This Bill Does

The bill broadens the definition of a landfill to cover landfills using non-earth covers. It adds a new 'Alternative Cover' concept, which is material other than earth used to cover a landfill and must be approved by the Department of Environmental Management to meet performance standards at least equal to earth cover, in line with federal law and EPA rules. This change updates key landfill-related terms to support the broader definition and alignment with federal requirements.

Who It Affects

• Landfill owners and operators: may use alternative covers (non-earth materials) if the Department approves the cover, subject to comparable performance to traditional earth cover.
• Regulators and waste facilities: the Department of Environmental Management and related agencies must evaluate, approve, and apply standards for alternative covers consistent with federal law.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 22-27-2 to include landfills covered by substances other than earth within the landfill definition.
• Adds the term 'Alternative Cover' and requires Department of Environmental Management approval for such covers, ensuring they meet performance standards equal to earthen cover under federal law and EPA rules.
• Provides definitions for related terms (e.g., landfill, disposal, facility) to support the broadened definition and regulatory framework.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Environmental Management Department