Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB742

Introduced
3/28/23  

Caption

In powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, providing for Office of Environmental Justice.

Impact

If passed, HB 742 would amend existing laws by introducing a structured approach to tackle environmental injustices within the Commonwealth. This office would coordinate with various agencies to create recommendations, ensure compliance with environmental justice principles, and reduce health disparities arising from environmental issues. The establishment of a task force and advisory board would further enhance oversight and support collaboration among community representatives, academics, and government officials, making the process more inclusive and accountable.

Summary

House Bill 742 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing the Office of Environmental Justice within the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The bill is designed to ensure that communities of color and low-income communities are not disproportionately burdened by environmental risks and health impacts. By doing this, the bill seeks to promote fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all individuals in the development and enforcement of environmental laws, ensuring that all populations have access to information and opportunities for participation in matters affecting their health and environment.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 742 appears to be supportive among legislators advocating for equality and environmental health. Proponents argue that the bill addresses critical issues of agency accountability and fosters a stronger connection between communities and their government. Conversely, there may be concerns about the bill's implementation, specifically regarding resource allocation and bureaucratic overhead, which some stakeholders fear could complicate the ability to respond effectively to environmental issues in a timely manner.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the effectiveness of the proposed measures and the potential for bureaucratic delays in addressing urgent environmental health issues. Critics may question whether the creation of a new office will result in real change or simply add another layer of administration. Furthermore, the balance between regulatory oversight and the capacity of local communities to engage effectively in the process could be challenged, especially if resources are scarce or if there is insufficient engagement from impacted populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB118

In powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, providing for Office of Environmental Justice.

PA SB158

In powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, providing for Office of Environmental Justice.

PA SB681

In administrative organization, further providing for departmental administrative boards, commissions, and offices; in organization of departmental administrative boards and commissions and of advisory boards and commissions, further providing for advisory boards and commissions and repealing provisions relating to Environmental Quality Board; in powers and duties of the Department of Agriculture and its departmental administrative commission, further providing for seasonal farm labor; in powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, further providing for Environmental Quality Board and for powers of Environmental Quality Board.

PA AB649

Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery: Office of Environmental Justice and Tribal Relations.

PA HB1269

In administrative organization, further providing for advisory boards and commissions; and, in powers and duties of the Department of Health and its departmental administrative and advisory boards, establishing the Brain Injury Advisory Board.

PA SB1230

In powers and duties of the Department of Labor and Industry, its departmental administrative and advisory boards and departmental administrative officers, further providing for Elevator Safety Board.

PA HB2173

Establishing the Department of Disability Rights, Employment, Accessibility and Mobility; in administrative organization, further providing for executive officers, administrative departments and independent administrative boards and commissions, for departmental administrative boards, commissions, and offices, for department heads and for gubernatorial appointments; and providing for powers and duties of the Department of Disability Rights, Employment, Accessibility and Mobility.

PA AB2419

Environmental justice: federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Justice40 Advisory Committee.

PA HB1169

In powers and duties of the Department of General Services and its departmental administrative and advisory boards and commissions, providing for water bottle filling stations.

PA HB1139

In powers and duties of the Department of General Services and its departmental administrative and advisory boards and commissions, providing for water bottle filling stations.

Similar Bills

PA SB118

In powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, providing for Office of Environmental Justice.

PA SB158

In powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Resources, its officers and departmental and advisory boards and commissions, providing for Office of Environmental Justice.

PA HB109

Providing for issuance of permits in environmental justice areas.

MA S636

To improve environmental justice in the Commonwealth

PA SB888

Providing for issuance of permits in environmental justice areas.

PA HB963

Establishing the Environmental Justice Policy Center and the Environmental Justice Policy Fund; and making a transfer.

MA H3187

Relative to energy facilities siting improvement to address environmental justice, climate, and public health

PA HB652

Providing for issuance of permits in environmental justice areas.