This bill amends current law to exempt municipalities from paying any fees associated with permits required for stream cleaning projects. Under existing regulations, counties and municipalities must obtain a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection or other relevant State agencies before undertaking any stream cleaning, clearing, or desnagging activities. While the requirement to obtain a permit remains in place, the new provision ensures that municipalities will not incur any costs related to these permits.

The bill specifically adds a new clause stating that "no municipality shall be charged any fees associated with a permit issued by a State agency required for any project that is subject to the requirements of subsections a. and b." of the existing law. This change aims to alleviate the financial burden on municipalities while still maintaining the necessary regulatory oversight for stream cleaning activities. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 58:16A-67