Regulatory reduction program for Department of Environmental Quality; provide pilot program.
The bill's implementation is expected to lead to a 15% reduction in state regulatory requirements over a three-year period. The timeline for these reductions includes a 5% cut by December 31 of each year from 2022 to 2024. However, regulations required by federal law, court orders, or necessary for federal funding are exempt from these requirements. The overall impact could lead to a significant shift in the regulatory landscape, affecting various sectors within the state, particularly those interacting with state environmental regulations.
Senate Bill 2500 aims to establish a regulatory reduction program specifically targeting the Mississippi Commission on Environmental Quality. The bill mandates that the Commission must not adopt any new regulatory requirements unless it simultaneously removes at least two existing regulations. This approach is intended to streamline regulatory processes and reduce the overall regulatory burden on businesses and individuals operating within the state. In addition, the bill stipulates that each pilot agency must conduct a thorough review of its existing regulations and prepare an inventory to identify opportunities for reduction.
While proponents argue that SB2500 will enhance efficiency and provide relief to the regulated community, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of rolling back regulations that protect public health and the environment. The requirement to remove existing rules could lead to gaps in regulatory oversight, which might undermine the protective measures currently in place for the environment and citizen welfare. The bill also mandates robust public input during the regulatory review process, which may contribute to local concerns and pushback from within communities impacted by such decisions.