Arizona State Representative Alexander Kolodin(R-3) is proposing amendments to HB 2056, a bill introduced by freshman Representative Lisa Fink (R-27) that aims to prohibit “geoengineering” practices in the state. The bill defines geoengineering as “the intentional manipulation of the environment, involving nuclear, biological, chemical, electromagnetic, and other physical-agent activities that affect changes to earth’s atmosphere or surface.” Kolodin expressed concerns that, as currently written, the bill’s broad language could lead to unintended consequences.

In an exclusive statement to the Arizona Globe, Kolodin emphasized the need for precise definitions to prevent misinterpretation. “We want to be careful that this bill won’t inadvertently be used as a tool for the left,” he said. “What we don’t want (is) to prohibit is fossil fuels, cars, gas power plants, coal power plants, gas stoves, lawn mowers, or the like.”

Kolodin identified three primary areas for amendment:

• Clarifying the Definition of Geoengineering to ensure that traditional energy sources and everyday appliances are not mistakenly categorized under the bill’s prohibitions.
• Differentiating Between Cloud Seeding and Solar Radiation Management (SRM), recognizing that cloud seeding is a well-established practice distinct from the more experimental SRM and should not be conflated within the legislation.
• Establishing Clear Enforcement Mechanisms and Penalties: To provide a structured framework for implementing the bill and addressing violations appropriately.

Kolodin is actively working on submitting these official amendments to refine the bill’s language and scope. He believes these changes are essential to prevent the legislation from misapplying or leading to unintended restrictions on common technologies and practices.

He spelled out his concerns in a letter to his constituents.

HB 2056, as introduced by Fink, seeks to ban various geoengineering practices, including cloud seeding, aerosol spraying, solar radiation modification, and other weather-altering activities. The bill, modeled after similar legislation in other states, prohibits government agencies, universities, private organizations, and the military from engaging in geoengineering. Violators could face a $500,000 fine, felony charges, and up to three years in prison.

The bill directs the Department of Water Resources to investigate reports of excessive electromagnetic activity and geoengineering within strict timelines, with police required to forward credible evidence within 24 hours. Additionally, public notices would encourage citizens to report suspected geoengineering activities.

On her website, Fink emphasized the importance of safeguarding Arizona’s natural resources and protecting citizens from potential risks associated with unregulated climate experiments. She has received support from grassroots environmental organizations and constituents concerned about the lack of federal regulation surrounding geoengineering practices.

Kolodin, known for his legislative precision, has indicated that he won’t support the bill in its current form but will if his amendments are accepted. While details of the amendments are still emerging, Kolodin told the Globe that we want to be careful that this bill “won’t inadvertently be used as a tool for the left.”

Public interest in HB 2056 has been robust, with residents expressing concerns about geoengineering and its potential risks. The bill is expected to face rigorous debate in committee. As the legislative session unfolds, HB 2056 could become one of the most watched bills of the year, marking an ambitious start for Fink’s career in public office.

We reached out to Fink before this article was posted but have yet to hear from her office. We hope to sit down with her for an interview before the committee hears this bill.

The next hearing on this bill is on January 28 at 2:00 pm in the Committee on Regulatory Oversight.