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HB 2417

Relating to requiring disclosure of the lawful activity that is the basis of a permit application with the Department of Environmental Protection

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Hansen

House Bill 2417 requires permit applicants to disclose their lawful activities, enhancing transparency and informing local communities about potential environmental impacts.

To House Energy and Public Works
#environment
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2417

Summary of House Bill 2417

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2417
  • Title: Relating to requiring disclosure of the lawful activity that is the basis of a permit application with the Department of Environmental Protection
  • Status: To House Energy and Public Works
  • Introduced: January 31, 2025
  • Sponsor: Rep. Jay Hoffman

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2417 aims to enhance transparency regarding industrial and manufacturing activities that require permits from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in West Virginia. The bill mandates that entities applying for permits disclose the lawful purpose of their activities, ensuring that the public and nearby residents are informed about the nature of these activities.

Key Provisions

  • Disclosure Requirement:

    • Applicants for permits must provide a clear and specific description of the lawful activity for which the permit is being sought. This is intended to inform the public about the proposed activities at the permit location.

  • Public Right to Know:

    • The bill emphasizes the public's right to be informed about activities that may impact their environment and community.

  • Exceptions:

    • The disclosure requirement does not extend to trade secrets or proprietary information, protecting sensitive business information from being publicly disclosed.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Permit Applicants: Industries and manufacturers seeking permits will need to comply with the new disclosure requirements.
    • Local Residents and Communities: The bill aims to empower residents by providing them with information about nearby industrial activities, potentially increasing community engagement and oversight.

  • Department of Environmental Protection: The DEP will be responsible for enforcing the new disclosure requirements as part of the permit application process.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Journey:

    • The bill was introduced on January 31, 2025, and has undergone several committee reviews and amendments.
    • It was referred to the House Energy and Public Works Committee and has been re-referred to the Rules Committee for further consideration.

  • Timeline of Actions:

    • January 31, 2025: Bill filed by Rep. Jay Hoffman.
    • February 4, 2025: First reading and referral to Rules Committee.
    • February 17, 2025: Assigned to the Energy and Public Works Committee.
    • March 3, 2025: House Committee Amendment No. 1 filed and referred to Rules Committee.
    • March 21, 2025: Re-referred to Rules Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2417 seeks to improve transparency in the permitting process for industrial activities in West Virginia by requiring clear disclosures from applicants. This legislation aims to empower local communities and ensure that residents are informed about activities that may affect their environment. The bill is currently under review in the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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