This bill amends existing law to exempt certain local utilities from specific land use approval requirements while ensuring that they still undergo a review process. It defines "local utility" to include various authorities and entities that provide essential services such as gas, electricity, and water. Before any public funds are spent on a development proposal, the local utility must refer the proposal to the county planning board for review and recommendation in alignment with the county master plan. The local utility can proceed with the proposal after receiving the planning board's recommendations or after 45 days if no recommendations are provided.

Additionally, the bill modifies the "Municipal Land Use Law" to align the status of local utilities with other public entities, allowing them to submit development proposals for review without needing local planning board approval. This change aims to streamline the process for local utilities while maintaining oversight through the county planning board. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:27-6.1, 40:55D-31