I intend to introduce legislation that will help municipalities and businesses comply with federally mandated Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) standards.
 
Currently, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees the state’s MS4 process. Unfortunately, outdated modeling and limited data impairs the program, which slows down permitting and results in inaccurate water quality information being reported to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
 
A companion bill to House Bill 207, my legislation will allow water quality testing from other state agencies and accredited labs to be incorporated into the process. Allowing entities such as the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, and the Pennsylvania State University to submit their water testing data will ensure applicants receive permits at a faster rate and that water quality reporting in Pennsylvania is up to date.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this legislation to increase government efficiency as we work to demonstrate compliance with EPA water quality standards.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1399: P.L.864, No.167