Providing for building permits and endangered and threatened species; and making an appropriation.
Impact
The bill's provisions indicate that municipalities are not allowed to issue building permits unless all necessary conditions are satisfied regarding the protection of endangered and threatened species. This could significantly impact future construction projects, particularly in areas where such species are present. Additionally, the bill includes measures for appeals in cases where permits are denied due to these concerns, adding a layer of accountability and transparency to the permit process.
Summary
House Bill 52 aims to amend the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act by establishing new provisions specifically related to building permits and the protection of endangered and threatened species. The bill intends to ensure that any proposed construction does not negatively impact these species, thereby promoting environmental conservation while allowing development to proceed responsibly. To achieve this, it necessitates that applicants provide detailed information to determine possible negative effects on such species before a permit can be issued.
Sentiment
The discussion surrounding HB52 appears to be generally supportive among those advocating for environmental protection, as it emphasizes the need for compliance with ecological standards. However, there may also be concerns from developers regarding potential delays and added bureaucracy in obtaining building permits. The positive sentiment towards conservation is countered by apprehensions about the efficiency of construction processes, highlighting a tension between development aspirations and environmental stewardship.
Contention
One notable point of contention in discussions around HB52 revolves around the balance between development and environmental concerns. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect vulnerable species from habitat loss due to new construction, while opponents might raise issues about the potential for excessive regulatory delays that could hinder economic growth and development projects. This tension reflects broader debates about sustainable development and the prioritization of ecological considerations within state laws.
In game or wildlife protection, further providing for the offense of unlawful taking and possession of protected birds and for endangered or threatened species.
Providing for the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time Grant Program; establishing the Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time Fund; and making an appropriation.
In Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission; in game or wildlife protection, further providing for report to commission officer and for surrender of carcass to commission officer; in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, providing for hunting on Sunday and further providing for unlawful devices and methods, for the offense of trespass on private property while hunting and for hunting on Sunday without written permission; and, in special licenses and permits, providing for agriculture access permit list.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in residual waste, further providing for disposal, processing and storage of residual waste and providing for exempt special wastes; and making an editorial change.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in residual waste, further providing for disposal, processing and storage of residual waste and providing for exempt special wastes; and making an editorial change.
Establishing the Landslide Insurance Program; establishing and providing for the powers and duties of the Landslide Insurance Board; providing for duties of the Auditor General; imposing a penalty; and making appropriations and transfers.