Senate Bill 874 aims to enhance environmental protections for vulnerable communities in Wisconsin by imposing stricter requirements on the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before issuing permits for facility operations. The bill defines a "vulnerable community" as a census block group where at least 50% of households are low-income, with additional criteria based on racial demographics or limited English proficiency. Under the new provisions, the DNR cannot issue permits for facilities in these areas unless the applicant prepares a comprehensive environmental impact report, makes it publicly available, and conducts a public hearing in the community. The DNR is required to consider community feedback and the cumulative environmental impacts when deciding on permit applications.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the DNR maintain an updated list of vulnerable communities and allows for the denial of permits if the cumulative impact of a proposed facility poses an unreasonable risk to public health or the environment. The DNR is also granted rule-making authority to implement these new requirements effectively. The bill emphasizes the importance of community involvement and transparency in the permitting process, ensuring that the voices of residents in vulnerable communities are heard and considered in environmental decision-making.