Delaware House Bill HB249

Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/28/23
• Refer: 6/28/23

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 7 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Department Of Natural Resources And Environmental Control.

Impact

The bill's passage would notably impact the financial operations of DNREC, allowing for adjustments in permit and licensing fees to accommodate inflation and the operational costs that have escalated since the last fee adjustment. This is significant because a substantial portion of the agency's funding comes from these fees rather than the state's general fund. By modernizing the fee schedule, the bill aims to alleviate a financial burden that has become unsustainable for the department, thereby ensuring ongoing regulatory capability and environmental stewardship.

Summary

House Bill 249 aims to amend Title 7 of the Delaware Code, specifically targeting fee structures within the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). This legislation was prompted by the fact that many of the fees for required permits and licenses have not been updated since 1991. Given the significant changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and salary costs over the past three decades, the bill seeks to increase fees to better reflect current economic conditions. The intent is to ensure that DNREC can continue to operate effectively, as it is primarily self-funded through these fees, covering approximately 79% of its costs annually.

Sentiment

Initial sentiments surrounding House Bill 249 appear to be cautiously positive, especially among proponents who emphasize the necessity of updating outdated fee structures. While there is an acknowledgment of the need for these increases, concerns have also been voiced regarding the impact on businesses and individuals who rely on these permits, particularly as higher fees could present financial hurdles. Stakeholders are closely watching the potential ramifications of these adjustments on local businesses and environmental compliance.

Contention

Despite general support for the intention behind HB249, there are points of contention among stakeholders. Critics argue that raising fees without adequate justification or transparency could burden small businesses, thereby undermining local economic development. Furthermore, some advocates for environmental protection believe that while fees need to be raised, the increases must be implemented thoughtfully to avoid deterring compliance and proactive environmental actions among constituents.