Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB288

Introduced
2/20/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Engrossed
2/23/23  
Refer
2/23/23  
Report Pass
3/2/23  
Refer
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/9/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Report Pass
3/27/23  
Enrolled
3/29/23  
Chaptered
4/4/23  

Caption

Regarding Environmental Law; To Amend The Law Related To Certain Permits; To Amend The Law Regarding Certain Permit Fees; And To Amend The Law Regarding Appointments On The Licensing Committee Related To Wastewater Treatment Plants.

Impact

This bill intends to create a more structured framework for permit fees which may streamline the permitting process for environmental regulations. By setting clear guidelines and caps on permit fees, SB288 could potentially simplify compliance for businesses and organizations involved in activities regulated by environmental law. The legislation may also affect funding for regulatory agencies, as the fees collected will be subject to specific revenue limitations established by the bill.

Summary

SB288, titled 'Regarding Environmental Law', aims to amend existing regulations concerning certain permits and permit fees under the purview of the Division of Environmental Quality. The bill seeks to establish reasonable fees for the issuance and modification of water, air, and solid waste permits, which will be governed by a cost-calculation methodology based on administrative actions. In particular, the legislation emphasizes the need for transparency in how fees are set, including the costs associated with evaluating permit applications and enforcing permit conditions.

Sentiment

The sentiment within discussions surrounding SB288 is largely supportive among environmental regulatory bodies and advocates for clearer financial structures in the permitting process. However, there may be concerns from certain industry stakeholders about the implications of increased fees or the administrative burden associated with the changes. Overall, the proposal is viewed positively by proponents who advocate for more predictable and justified fees, while opponents express apprehension regarding potential cost increases.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the ability of the Division of Environmental Quality to set fees and the potential for these fees to impact small businesses disproportionately. Critics may argue that increased fees could deter compliance or efficiency within sectors that heavily rely on permits for operation. The balance between adequate funding for regulatory oversight and maintaining a reasonable cost-benefit ratio for businesses is likely to be a critical aspect of ongoing debate surrounding SB288.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1061

An Act For The Department Of Energy And Environment - Division Of Environmental Quality Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1045

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Boards And Commissions Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1071

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Division Of Labor Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB80

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1097

To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law; To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SR2

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR HR1011

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill Amending The Revenue Stabilization Law, Creating Funds, Repealing Funds, And Making Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

AR SB79

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Provide For The Regulation Of Digital Asset Mining Businesses; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB5

An Act For The Department Of Labor And Licensing - Workers' Compensation Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1010

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Revenue Stabilization Law, To Create Funds, To Repeal Funds, And To Make Transfers To And From Funds And Fund Accounts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.