This bill designates Coos County as a distressed place-based economy, recognizing its significant economic challenges such as high unemployment and financial losses compared to other counties in the state. To address these issues, the bill mandates that state agency commissioners consult with county commissioners before making regulatory decisions that could impact the county's economy. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative regulatory approaches that consider local government input to minimize unintended economic consequences and promote the health and welfare of the county's interdependent economy. Additionally, the bill repeals the previous designation of Coos County as a distressed place-based economy, reflecting a new regulatory framework aimed at fostering economic growth while protecting public health and the environment.

The bill also introduces new regulations for the Department of Environmental Services regarding landfill siting, specifically prohibiting permits for new landfills located too close to drinking water sources, rivers, lakes, or coastal waters, with setback distances based on groundwater velocity. It incorporates the "Ford Act" into landfill permitting requirements, prohibiting municipal solid waste landfills within six miles of certain smaller public airports. The bill modifies the permit denial process by changing the language from "may" to "shall," indicating a stricter requirement for permit applications. While the fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, various state departments anticipate increased expenditures due to the need for additional staffing and consultation efforts, with potential costs ranging from $500,000 to over $1,000,000. Overall, the bill aims to enhance regulatory collaboration with Coos County while ensuring environmental protections.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 149-M:7, 149-M:9