Under this bill, any new facility or the expansion of an existing facility located, even partially, in a burdened community will require the applicant to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment. This assessment must evaluate not only the direct effects of the project but also any cumulative impacts that may affect the community's public health and environment. The permitting authority cannot grant approval without these assessments and a subsequent public hearing, promoting community involvement in the permitting process.
Summary
SB1508 aims to amend Arizona's environmental permitting process with a focus on communities that are deemed 'burdened'. The bill requires the Department of Environmental Quality to adopt a list of these communities based on their median household income, specifically targeting those in the bottom thirty-three percent. This classification process is critical as it establishes which communities will have additional protections when new facilities are proposed in their areas.
Contention
Notably, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of SB1508, particularly from industry stakeholders who could argue that the additional layers of assessment and public hearings may delay or complicate the permitting process. Proponents of the bill, however, argue that these measures are necessary to protect vulnerable communities from potential environmental harm, emphasizing the bill's intent to support public health and environmental justice.
California Environmental Quality Act: State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection: vegetation treatment program: final program environmental impact report.
Provides tax credit under corporation business tax and gross income tax for certain costs incurred in purchase and installation of certain environmentally responsible business equipment.