The bill H.820 proposes a comprehensive overhaul of the appeals process for environmental permits in Vermont, transferring authority from the Environmental Division of the Superior Court to the newly established Land Use Review Board and the Secretary of Natural Resources. Key changes include replacing all references to the "Environmental Division" with "Land Use Review Board," thereby centralizing the responsibility for hearing appeals and enforcement cases. The bill emphasizes public participation in the Act 250 permitting process, making it a prerequisite for appealing decisions made by the District Commission. It also introduces new definitions related to the appeals process, establishes a timeline for filing appeals, and outlines the conditions under which an aggrieved person may appeal decisions.

Additionally, the bill modifies the composition and terms of the Land Use Review Board, reducing its membership from five to three members and extending their terms from five to six years. It mandates the Governor to appoint members by January 1, 2027, ensuring diversity within the Board. The bill also establishes a fee for filing appeals, creates the Act 250 Permit Fund to support land use regulations, and clarifies the Board's jurisdiction over various environmental and municipal decisions. Furthermore, it repeals certain provisions related to the Environmental Division, effectively consolidating land use and environmental review under the new Board, which aims to streamline processes and enhance efficiency in land use decision-making in Vermont. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-220, 3-2825, 10-6021, 10-6025, 10-6027(h), 10-6027, 10-6086(f), 10-6086, 10-6083a, 10-6029, 24-4465, 24-4471, 24-4472, 24-4453, 24-4449, 24-4452, 24-4455, 24-4469, 24-4470, 24-2283, 4-30, 4-21a, 4-36, 10-201