Virginia Senate Bill SB844

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/28/22
• Refer: 12/28/22

Caption

Forest crops; exemptions for harvesting.

Impact

The implications of SB844 are expected to be significant for various sectors, particularly in construction and land development. By requiring that land-disturbing activities submit detailed erosion and sediment control plans, the bill enforces stricter regulations aimed at protecting Virginia's natural resources. Potential impacts include increased oversight for developers and landowners, as permits will require thorough documentation proving compliance with environmental standards. This may raise operational costs in the short term for businesses involved in land-disturbing projects but is intended to foster sustainable development practices in the long run.

Summary

SB844 introduces amendments to the existing Virginia Code regarding regulations for land-disturbing activities. The bill primarily focuses on updating the requirements surrounding the submission and approval of erosion and sediment control plans, as well as the establishment of new exemptions and protocols. It aims to improve compliance with environmental protections related to soil erosion and water quality by ensuring that activities causing land disturbance are properly regulated through permits vetted by appropriate authorities. Specifically, local management programs and authorities are given clearer guidelines on how to handle permit applications and compliance checks.

Contention

Despite its intentions, SB844 may raise concerns among stakeholders regarding the additional regulatory burden it places on local governments and developers. There may be apprehension about the compliance costs and operational delays resulting from the need for extensive permit applications and plan approvals. Additionally, whether the bill efficiently balances environmental protection with the economic interests of land development will be a topic of discussion among legislators and lobbyists. Critics may argue that the stringent requirements could stifle growth in affected sectors, while supporters will emphasize the need for preserving Virginia's delicate ecosystems.