The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating the provisions related to groundwater discharge permit fees. It allows the Department to levy an annual fee from facilities or municipalities discharging wastewater to the ground or groundwater until October 1, 2027. The fee structure is specified, with a group 1 facility charged $7,500, while group 2 facilities, mobile home parks with 1,000 or fewer residents, campgrounds with 1,000 or fewer sites, and municipalities of 1,000 or fewer residents will be charged $1,800. Additionally, group 2a facilities will incur a fee of $300, and group 3 facilities will be charged $240.

The bill also stipulates that the Department must grant or deny a permit within 180 days of receiving a complete application, with the possibility of extending this period if agreed upon. If the Department fails to make a decision within the specified timeframe, applicants will receive a 15% discount on their annual groundwater discharge permit fee. Furthermore, municipalities required to pay the fee can pass it on to users of the municipal facility. The definitions of various facility groups are clarified, ensuring that municipalities with populations of 1,000 or fewer residents are not included in the group classifications.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 324.3122
House Introduced Bill: 324.3122
As Passed by the House: 324.3122