summary
Introduced
01/24/2023
01/24/2023
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/28/2024
03/28/2024
Introduced Session
2023-2024 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Part 3 of Article 2 of Chapter 4 of Title 12 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to surface mining, so as to prohibit the director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Natural Resources Department from issuing, modifying, or renewing any permit or accepting any bond to conduct surface mining operations on Trail Ridge for future permit applications and amendments; to provide a definition; to provide for a short title; to provide for legislative findings; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill, the Okefenokee Protection Act, aims to prohibit the director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Natural Resources Department from issuing, modifying, or renewing any permit or accepting any bond to conduct surface mining operations on Trail Ridge, which is defined as a key geological feature that shapes the Okefenokee Swamp's hydrology and contains heavy mineral sands. The bill cites the Okefenokee Swamp's vital importance to the state and the risks that surface mining on Trail Ridge would pose to the swamp's wetlands, water quality and quantity, wildlife habitat, air quality, and wilderness values, as well as the cultural and historic heritage of the area.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Sponsors (6)
Gerald Greene (R)*,
Lee Hawkins (R)*,
Bill Hitchens (R)*,
Jesse Petrea (R)*,
Ron Stephens (R)*,
Darlene Taylor (R)*,
Last Action
House Natural Resources & Environment Resource Management Subcommittee (14:00:00 3/14/2023 506 CLOB) (on 03/14/2023)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/63631 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20232024/212765 |
Loading...