State’s permitting process reformed under newly enacted budget

Pennsylvania’s newly enacted fiscal year 2024-2025 budget includes regulatory reform efforts supported by State Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-93) that aim to cut government red tape.

“This is a major win for the future of our commonwealth,” Phillips-Hill said in a July 11 statement. “By cutting through the red tape, we’re not only supporting our current businesses and communities but also laying the groundwork for future growth and prosperity in Pennsylvania.”

As part of the amendments to the state’s Fiscal Code, the new budget that was signed into law on July 10 by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro overhauls the permitting process for land, air, and water-related permits required by the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and county conservation districts for development.

“I am tired of losing jobs and economic opportunity to other states because Pennsylvania’s regulatory delays are too burdensome and make us uncompetitive,” said Phillips-Hill, state Senate Majority Caucus Chair. “This effort will ensure that, regardless of whoever occupies the governor’s mansion or serves in the legislature, Pennsylvania is always open for business.”

Language in the new law includes key elements from state Senate Bill 350, which Phillips-Hill and Pennsylvania Sen. Greg Rothman (R-34) sponsored to streamline and expedite the state’s permitting process.

Specifically, the new law will expedite Permit Review by a Third-Party, allowing applicants to utilize third-party entities approved by the state to expedite the review process for permits issued by DEP and county conservation districts.

Additionally, a Permit Application Tracking System will enable applicants to check the status of their permits online, including processing times, review dates, and estimated time remaining for each phase, according to a summary provided by Phillips-Hill.

The DEP will also be held accountable for costs incurred by permit applicants for a priority review for failure of a permit decision within an allotted time period, the summary says.

“Growing our economy, creating new jobs, and putting Pennsylvania on a path to prosperity is not partisan, it’s common sense,” said Phillips-Hill. “I am glad we were able to get this across the finish line.”

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