Connecticut House Bill HB05359

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/10
• Refer: 2/25/10

Caption

An Act Requiring Permits Issued By The Department Of Environmental Protection Be Adopted In Accordance With The Uniform Administrative Procedures Act.

Impact

The intended impact of this bill includes a substantial shift in how environmental permits are managed within the state. It expects to streamline procedures and clarify the responsibilities of the DEP while simultaneously extending protections to the community through enhanced input opportunities. By enforcing UAPA guidelines, local stakeholders will have a clearer avenue to express their concerns and influence the permit decisions affecting their environment. This aligns with efforts to promote sustainable practices in environmental management and ensure that potential environmental harm is adequately evaluated.

Summary

House Bill 05359 proposes that all permits issued by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) adhere strictly to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act (UAPA). This bill aims to enhance transparency and public involvement in the permitting process by establishing defined protocols for permit issuance, modification, and revocation. Supporters believe that these changes will foster greater accountability from the DEP, ensuring that public interests are adequately represented during the permitting process. The bill affirms the necessity for public notice and a comment period before the final decision on permit applications.

Contention

However, the bill faces some contention regarding its implications for both the efficiency and effectiveness of the permit process. Critics argue that the stringent adherence to UAPA could lead to bureaucratic delays, hindering timely environmental management decisions. Additionally, some stakeholders believe that while public involvement is crucial, the proposed measures could overwhelm the DEP with excessive regulations, ultimately complicating the permitting process. This contention raises significant questions about finding a balance between public participation and operational efficiency within the environmental regulatory framework.