Virginia House Bill HB2132

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25

Caption

Erosion and sediment control for certain localities; bond for sediment basin.

Impact

The enforcement of this bill will necessitate localities to adopt rigorous sediment control measures and secure performance bonds to guarantee compliance with these standards. The bill further allows agencies to draw from these bonds to cover costs incurred from any necessary conservation actions if the permit holders fail to act according to their approved plans. This financial responsibility aims to foster accountability among developers and contractors, ensuring that land-disturbing activities do not lead to detrimental environmental impacts.

Summary

House Bill 2132 aims to amend the Code of Virginia concerning erosion and sediment control for certain localities, particularly by establishing requirements tied to permits issued for land-disturbing activities. It stipulates that agencies responsible for issuing such permits must ensure applicants submit an approved erosion and sediment control plan, along with certification of compliance and necessary permits. The bill aims to enhance the regulation of construction activities to mitigate environmental degradation through sediment runoff, which can adversely affect local waterways and ecosystems.

Contention

While the bill's primary intent is to strengthen ecological safeguards, it may also lead to concerns among developers regarding the added financial obligations and administrative processes that the new requirements impose. Stakeholders in the construction sector might argue that these regulations could delay projects and increase operational costs, potentially shifting the burden onto consumers. Moreover, discussions may arise around the adequacy of existing regulatory frameworks, prompting debates on the need for such amendments in terms of their overall effectiveness and impacts on economic activity in the affected localities.