2009 Senate Bill 439

Benchmark state environmental regulation administration

Introduced in the Senate

April 2, 2009

Introduced by Sen. Roger Kahn (R-32)

To require state agencies with authority over various environmental regulatory regimes, in particular the Department of Environmental Quality, to hire an independent expert to conduct two studies each year benchmarking the regulation administration on the basis of per permit cost, how fast permits are processed, “customer service” practices, measurable environmental effects, how it compares to other states, and more. The benchmarking would continue at that pace until all programs had been reviewed.

Referred to the Committee on Economic Development and Regulatory Reform

June 11, 2009

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

June 17, 2009

Passed in the Senate 21 to 15 (details)

To require state agencies with authority over various environmental regulatory regimes, in particular the Department of Environmental Quality, to hire an independent expert to conduct two studies each year benchmarking the regulation administration on the basis of per permit cost, how fast permits are processed, “customer service” practices, measurable environmental effects, how it compares to other states, and more. The benchmarking would continue at that pace until all programs had been reviewed.

Received in the House

June 17, 2009

Referred to the Committee on Great Lakes and Environment