COLUMBIA — A bill introduced by Sen. Larry Martin of the Pickens County Legislative Delegation is nearing approval by both houses and closing in on the Governor’s office.
According to Martin, the bill originating in the Senate, now being read as the House version H. 4857, is close to approval following a third reading and will be considered with a Senate amendment attached this week.
Martin feels confident the bill will receive approval and be ready for Gov. Nikki Haley’s signature, possibly by week’s end.
“I’m very appreciative that the state Senate gave third reading to H. 4857, the legislation designed to keep coal ash out of Pickens County,” Martin said. “The bill was sent back across the hall to the House of Representatives for its consideration of the Senate amendment on the bill. That vote is expected tomorrow (Feb. 24).”
The battle over coal ash in Pickens County continues following a decision by a judge to delay a decision on a hearing between the county and MRR Pickens LLC.
MRR had originally agreed with Pickens County to provide a Class 2 landfill but had their permit revoked by the Pickens County Planning Commission in January of this year, prompting MRR’s legal filing and hearing held Feb. 18
The passage of H. 4857 would, in all likelihood according to Martin, end the threat of coal ash disposal in Pickens County as it changes the designation needed from a Class 2 landfill to a Class 3 facility.
Regardless, Martin feels the bill should become law in the near future.
“After the House vote tomorrow (Feb. 24), the bill will need to be ratified and then it will be sent to the Governor’s desk. It’s my intention to have the bill on the Governor’s desk before the end of the week,” Martin stated.
