The annual “Tank Bill” is back—once again aiming to reduce inspections for tanks upstream from public water intakes. Join us during E-Day to push back against weakening drinking water quality protections which could facilitate another water crisis!
The Aboveground Storage Tank Act was created in response to the 2014 water crisis, when MCHM, a chemical used to clean coal, leaked into the Elk River, contaminating the drinking water source for over 300,000 people.
Over the past decade, the legislature has repeatedly tried to weaken these protections. The latest attempt, SB 592, passed the Senate on Friday, March 14th. Most concerning is that SB 592 would deregulate the type of chemical tanks that caused the 2014 water crisis —removing upwards of 1,000 oil, gas, and coal tanks from inspections currently mandated by the Act.
We can’t let history repeat itself! Here are two ways you can take action to oppose SB 592.
1.) On Monday, WV CAG and partner groups will hold a People’s Public Hearing at the West Virginia State Capitol. 
- What: People’s Public Hearing on SB 592
- When: Monday, March 17, 2025, 12 pm ET
- Where: WV State Capitol Building, Upper Rotunda, House Side
- Why: Our drinking water depends on it!
Sign up to speak here. Speakers will have a maximum of two minutes to speak. Find more information about the hearing on SB 592 here.
2.) Let legislators know you oppose SB 592. Click here to send a letter to your delegate. Tell them to reject SB 592 to preserve the crucial role the AST Act plays in safeguarding our health and environment.
Our drinking water must be protected to prevent another water crisis. Thank you for taking action!