The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating Section 1307, which governs the processing of permit applications by the department. Key changes include the requirement for the department to approve or deny permit applications by a specified processing deadline, with the possibility of extending this period by up to 120 days upon request from the applicant. However, the total processing time cannot exceed one year from the end of the application period. The bill also stipulates that the approval or denial of a permit must be documented in writing and based on sufficient evidence that meets established standards.

Additionally, the bill introduces several provisions regarding the consequences of the department's failure to meet processing requirements. If the department does not comply, it must pay the applicant a specified amount based on the application fee or periodic charges associated with the permit. Furthermore, if the department fails to meet the requirements for a significant percentage of applications, it must allocate resources to address the backlog. The director is also mandated to notify legislative appropriations committees in writing about any failures, including reasons and financial implications.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.1307