Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study to comprehensively review all the permits issued by the Department of Environmental Protection, including the authority of the Department of Environmental Protection, and issue a report of findings and recommendations.
Impact
The bill seeks to improve the existing regulatory framework by providing a pathway for streamlining the permitting process and ensuring compliance with both state and federal standards. By reviewing all issued permits, the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee will analyze overlapping, inconsistent, or outdated permits, potentially leading to significant improvements in the effectiveness of environmental protection efforts in Pennsylvania. The findings could prompt legislative changes that would ultimately reshape environmental oversight in the Commonwealth.
Summary
House Resolution 468, introduced in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a comprehensive study of all permits issued by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This examination aims to assess the authority of the DEP and the current permitting processes in order to identify inefficiencies, outdated practices, and opportunities for improvement. The resolution highlights concerns regarding the number of permits issued and the complexities surrounding various authorizations governed by the DEP.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment towards HR468 appears to support the idea of reforming the DEP's permitting process. Stakeholders, including lawmakers and environmental advocates, may view the undertaking of such a thorough study as a crucial step toward a more efficient regulatory environment. However, as with many environmental regulations, there may be dissenting opinions regarding the efficacy of existing DEP practices and whether any changes might compromise environmental protections.
Contention
Notable points of contention arise concerning how the study will be conducted and the implications of its findings. Critics may argue that focusing solely on efficiency might overlook important environmental safeguards that are currently in place. Furthermore, there could be concerns regarding the potential for political influence in the findings, particularly if the study identifies regulations that some perceive as excessive or burdensome. The challenge will lie in balancing the need for effective environmental protection while also facilitating economic activities that depend on clear and efficient permitting processes.
Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study evaluating the outcomes of Act 44 of 2018 and to issue a report of its findings and recommendations.
Urging the Department of Environmental Protection, as a result of the findings of the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee's report, Proposed Revisions to Biosolids General Permits PAG-07, PAG-08, and PAG-09, not to implement the proposed revisions.
Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the issue of consolidated billing in the retail electricity and other energy markets in Pennsylvania.
Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report reviewing the possibility of transitioning the General Assembly to part-time status.
Education: curriculum; environmental literacy task force to develop environmental literacy model curriculum and report on the curriculum; provide for. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1159.