Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB6

Introduced
3/19/25  

Caption

Providing for the administration of permits by State agencies, for a tracking system for permit applications, for the establishment of permit programs, for third-party review of permit decision delays and for annual reports; establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity and the Economic Development Strategy Group; and providing for their powers and duties.

Impact

If enacted, SB6 would significantly impact how permits are managed in Pennsylvania. By instituting deadlines for permit decisions and facilitating third-party reviews of delays, the bill aims to minimize bureaucracy and ensure that economic development projects do not stagnate due to prolonged permit processing times. Additionally, the establishment of the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity under this bill signifies a commitment to fostering economic growth by coordinating among various state agencies to provide cohesive support for development projects.

Summary

Senate Bill 6, also known as the Permit Administration and Economic Development Act, seeks to streamline and enhance the administration of permit applications by establishing standardized processes for review and decision-making by state agencies. A key component of this bill is the creation of a secure tracking system that allows applicants to monitor the status of their permit applications in real-time. This is intended to improve transparency and efficiency, ensuring that applicants are notified promptly about application statuses and necessary corrections due to deficiencies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB6 is generally positive among proponents, particularly those in the business community who see it as an essential move towards reducing inefficiencies in the permitting process. However, there may be concerns regarding the balance of power between state agencies and local authorities, and whether streamlined processes might overlook local considerations. Critics may argue that while efficiency is crucial, it should not come at the expense of environmental or community safeguards.

Contention

Notable points of contention around this bill could involve debates about the implications of third-party reviews, which may raise questions about the independence and qualifications of external reviewers. Additionally, stakeholders may express concerns about how the bill could affect existing environmental regulations and local governance powers, with some advocating for stronger measures to ensure that local input remains a critical component of the permit approval process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB350

Providing for the administration of permits by State agencies, for a tracking system for permit applications, for the establishment of permit programs, for third-party review of permit decision delays and for annual reports; establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity and the Economic Development Strategy Group; and providing for their powers and duties.

PA HB734

Providing for the administration of permits by State agencies, for a tracking system for permit applications, for the establishment of permit programs and for annual reports.

PA HB1577

Establishing the Regulatory Sandbox Program; and providing for agency applications for participation in Regulatory Sandbox Program, for duties of Independent Regulatory Review Commission, for authority of approved agencies and for permit applications by regulated persons for regulatory sandbox permits.

PA HB1630

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA HB2393

In general provisions, further providing for definitions and for powers and duties of department; in applications and permits, further providing for permits and licenses required, transition scheme and reporting requirements and providing for food processing residuals; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1082

Establishing the Adult-use Cannabis Program; providing for farmer-grower permits; and imposing duties on the Department of Health.

PA SB832

In Energy Development Authority and emergency powers, further providing for definitions and for Energy Development Authority; providing for Energy Development and Electric Generation Permit Review Program, for Accelerated Energy Development and Electric Generation Permit Review Program and for Pennsylvania Opportunities with Energy Reliability Authority Regulatory Waiver Program; and making editorial changes.

PA HB1113

In special licenses and permits, further providing for definitions, for exotic wildlife possession permits and for menagerie permits.

PA HB57

In powers and duties, providing for application form for licenses, certificates, registrations and permits.

PA HB84

In fees, further providing for annual hauling permits; and, in size, weight and load, further providing for conditions of permits and security for damages and providing for permit for movement of commercial implements of husbandry and farm equipment.

Similar Bills

PA SB350

Providing for the administration of permits by State agencies, for a tracking system for permit applications, for the establishment of permit programs, for third-party review of permit decision delays and for annual reports; establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity and the Economic Development Strategy Group; and providing for their powers and duties.

KY HB723

AN ACT relating to economic relief for local communities of the Commonwealth and declaring an emergency.

PA SB939

Providing for high impact data centers; establishing the Office of Transformation and Opportunity and the Artificial Intelligence, Data Center and Emerging Technology Regulatory Sandbox Program; and providing for powers and duties of office.

VA HJR145

Higher education; statewide strategic plan, report.

VA SJR53

Higher education; statewide strategic plan, report.

MA S185

To promote school centered neighborhood development

MA H298

To promote school centered neighborhood development

MA S409

To establish a community schools special legislative commission