DEQ permitting bill draws wide testimony; committee hears support, concerns and requests for stronger guardrails
House Bill 4102 would clarify and modernize DEQ's authority to use applicant-funded contracts or temporary staff to expedite permitting. The Senate committee heard broad testimony: sponsors and industry urged the tool to reduce an 18+-month backlog; labor, environmental and community groups supported a dash-1 amendment adding conflict-of-interest checks and workforce standards; DEQ testified it retains final permit authority.
The full story
The Senate Energy and Environment Committee on Feb. 16 heard extended testimony and questioning on House Bill 4102, a measure that would clarify the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality's authority to enter agreements with applicants to expedite or enhance permitting processes.
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