CS/HB 7003 — Environmental Resource Permitting
by State Affairs Committee; Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee; and Rep. Crisafulli and others (CS/SB 1354 by Budget Subcommittee on General Government Appropriations and Senator Detert)
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 directs the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to adopt statewide environmental resource permit (ERP) rules. The Water Management Districts (WMDs) and delegated local governments are directed to implement the rules without rulemaking, except to conform existing rules. The bill specifies the statewide ERP rules are to be based on existing DEP and WMD rules. Differences are allowed that are based on geographic differences in physical or natural characteristics. The bill allows the WMDs, with DEP oversight, to continue to adopt rules governing design and performance standards for stormwater quality and quantity. “Grandfather” clauses are included for ongoing activities that will not be subject to the new rules. The bill requires DEP staff oversight and training to ensure statewide consistency in implementing the ERP rules. The bill requires that local governments seeking delegation to implement the ERP program use statewide ERP rules and gives local governments that have already received delegation, one year from adoption of the rules to conform their ordinances. Lastly, the bill reenacts s. 70.001(12), F.S., for the purposes of a cross-reference.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect July 1, 2012.
Vote: Senate 39-0; House 115-0