Bill > HB1689

This bill establishes the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development Program within Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection to expedite permit reviews for various entities like businesses, municipalities, and government agencies. The program creates a new process where applicants can request an accelerated permit review by paying for a qualified professional (such as an engineer or licensed professional with at least five years of relevant experience) to conduct an initial comprehensive review. If a permitting entity fails to make a decision within the established timeline, the application automatically moves to a "priority review" where a decision must be rendered within 10 business days, and if still not resolved, the applicant may be entitled to a full refund of review and permit fees. The bill also requires the department to develop a secure online tracking system where applicants can monitor their permit application status, including processing timelines and key review dates. Additionally, the bill mandates that the qualified professionals conducting reviews must meet specific criteria, including having no recent criminal convictions and no conflicts of interest, and the reviews must comply with all existing federal and state environmental protection laws. The goal is to streamline and speed up the permit approval process while maintaining rigorous environmental and professional standards.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1689