Section 25531.2.

(a) The Legislature finds and declares that as the state implements the federal accidental release prevention program pursuant to this article, the Office of Emergency Services will play a vital and increased role in preventing accidental releases of extremely hazardous substances. The Legislature further finds and declares that as an element of the unified program established pursuant to Chapter 6.11 (commencing with Section 25404), a single fee system surcharge mechanism is established by Section 25404.5 to cover the costs incurred by the office pursuant to this article. It is the intent of the Legislature that this existing authority, together with any federal assistance that may become available to implement the accidental release program, be used to fully fund the activities of the office necessary to implement this article.

(b) The office shall use any federal assistance received to implement Chapter 6.11 (commencing with Section 25404) to offset any fees or charges levied to cover the costs incurred by the office pursuant to this article.

(Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 352, Sec. 368. Effective September 26, 2013. Operative July 1, 2013, by Sec. 543 of Ch. 352.)