The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating several sections related to the regulation of high-risk and flood risk areas, as well as environmental areas. Key changes include the requirement for the Department to promulgate rules for permit issuance, emphasizing the need to prioritize landowner rights over public access rights when reviewing permit applications. The bill also introduces a new section, 32510a, which specifies that permits are not required for constructing soft erosion control structures under certain conditions, such as using biodegradable materials and filing a notice with the Department prior to installation.

Additionally, the bill modifies the penalties for violations of the act, establishing that individuals who excavate or alter land without approval may face misdemeanor charges, with specific provisions for minor offenses. The definition of a minor offense is expanded to include violations of permits and the newly added section 32510a. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process for erosion control structures while ensuring environmental protection and compliance with state regulations.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-2): 324.32312
House Introduced Bill: 324.32312