Bill > H0820

This bill proposes to transfer the authority for hearing appeals and enforcement cases related to state environmental permits from the Environmental Division of the Superior Court to the Land Use Review Board and the Secretary of Natural Resources, effectively dissolving the Environmental Division's role in these matters. The bill also makes changes to the composition and appointment process of the Land Use Review Board, establishes new procedures for how the Board and the Secretary will handle appeals, including the use of hearing officers, and clarifies the standards for reviewing decisions. Additionally, it outlines a phased transfer of jurisdiction, with the Land Use Review Board taking over Act 250 (a Vermont land use law) appeals by July 1, 2027, and municipal zoning appeals by July 1, 2028, while the Secretary of Natural Resources will assume jurisdiction over agency permit, license, certification, and enforcement appeals by July 1, 2028.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.820