House Committee Roll Call Votes

Requires a well permit before the well site can be developed. Gives DEP authority to allow individuals to "adopt" abandoned wells and put them into production. Gives DEP greater authority to deny well permits based on outstanding violations. Gives DEP greater authority to suspend well drilling for egregious violations. Increases the civil penalties DEP can levy from $25,000 to $100,000 and increases the daily fines for continuous violations from $1000 to $10,500 per day. Increases bond amounts to cover actual costs of plugging well and reclaiming site.