HB 257

Abstract

This Act modifies the existing fees and supporting fee structure for air quality natural minor permits issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. This Act creates a new subsection establishing fees associated with the natural minor permit program. The existing fees were established in a 1991 bill, but not codified. The fees have not been adjusted in almost 3 decades and as a result the program is not self-sustaining. This Act will allow for a phased approach to increase these fees, with the first increase intended to result in funding 50% of the program costs. Evaluations will occur before July 1 of 2024 and July 1 of 2027 with recommended adjustments to fund 75% and 100% of the program costs respectively. It also requires subsequent evaluations, to occur every three years, to ensure the fees are completely funding the program. Sources subject to fees pursuant to Subchapter VIII of this Chapter, who are not delinquent, are exempt from natural minor permit fees.