Bill > SB159

This bill amends the Environmental Hearing Board Act by making several key changes to definitions and jurisdiction. First, it updates the definition of "Department" from the Department of Environmental Resources to the Department of Environmental Protection. The bill also introduces a detailed definition of "record of decision" which now comprehensively includes all documents, correspondence, comments, and evidence considered during a permit application process. Additionally, the bill modifies the jurisdiction and review standards for permit appeals, stipulating that the Environmental Hearing Board's review will be exclusively limited to the record of decision prepared by the department at the time of the permit decision. Parties will be prohibited from presenting new evidence not originally part of the record, and any challenge to the department's decision must demonstrate an abuse of discretion by a preponderance of the evidence. These changes aim to streamline and standardize the permit appeal process, ensuring that reviews are based solely on the original documentation and decision-making process. The bill will take effect 60 days after enactment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=159