Bill > HB175

This bill updates and increases various fees collected by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) across multiple divisions, marking the first significant fee adjustment since 1991. The bill aims to align fee revenue more closely with the actual costs of regulatory programs, reflecting increased operational expenses, technological improvements, and staffing needs, with approximately 76% of DNREC's operating costs currently coming from assessments, fees, and federal funds. Key changes include substantial increases in fees for underground and aboveground storage tank registrations, hazardous waste assessments, licensing for various environmental professionals, permit applications, and annual operational fees across divisions like Waste and Hazardous Substances, Air Quality, Water, and Watershed Stewardship. For example, tank registration fees will rise from $50 to $150 annually, and some permit application fees will increase from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The bill provides a phased implementation, with most fees taking effect 180 days after enactment, and a special provision for municipal fees that will be introduced at 50% of the new rate starting July 1, 2026. The legislation requires DNREC to maintain a public list of all authorized fees and ensures that existing permit holders have a 90-day window to submit applications under the previous fee structure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142394