CS/CS/HB 561— Organizational Structure of the Department of Environmental Protection
by Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee; Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee; and Rep. Combee (CS/CS/SB 400 by Appropriations Committee; Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee; and Senator Hays)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee (EP)
The bill removes the statutory enactment of each office within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The bill establishes the Office of Secretary within the DEP and authorizes the secretary to establish offices within the divisions or within the Office of Secretary to promote the efficient and effective operation of the DEP. The bill requires the secretary to appoint a general counsel who is directly responsible to and serves at the pleasure of the secretary and who is responsible for all legal matters of the DEP. The bill establishes the Division of Water Restoration Assistance within the DEP.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect July 1, 2016.
Vote: Senate 38-0; House 116-2