Posted: | June 5, 2015 10:05 AM |
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From: | Representative Martin T. Causer |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Cosponsorship - Removing Stream Obstructions |
In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation amending the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act to simplify and streamline the permitting process for removing obstructions and flood-related hazards from streams. This legislation will provide for a clear and effective process for stream maintenance. The current permitting process for clearing obstructions from streams is both costly and cumbersome. And as flooding events have illustrated, obstructions can become hazards that threaten life and property. This legislation will create a Small Stream Maintenance Permit that could be issued by county conservation districts at no cost. In addition, no costly engineering studies would be required. The permit would be limited to projects less than one acre in size to ensure that federal permit requirements are not applicable. Finally, this plan includes measures to further expedite stream clearings for local governments and agricultural operations when such activities are deemed to be an emergency. I would welcome your cosponsorship of this important legislation. |
Introduced as HB1433