Bill Summaries: S625 CONDITIONS FOR NEW ENVIRONMENTAL RULES.

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  • Summary date: Apr 14 2011 - View Summary

    Enacts new GS 143B-279.18 providing that no environmental rule may be adopted unless, in addition to meeting other requirements, (1) “the best available scientific data” indicates the rule is needed to protect the environment, (2) the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) develops a specific plan for conducting a future environmental audit (a term defined in this provision), and (3) DENR prepares an economic impact statement for each affected county. Requires that environmental audit consider scientific developments occurring after the rule was adopted or the most recent environmental audit. Requires that DENR seek to amend the rule when indicated. Requires that at least 80% of the members of any stakeholder committee created to consider a proposed environmental rule be employed in the private sector, reside in the affected city or county, have experience with the subject of the rule, and understand the rule’s impact. Requires that remaining committee members be DENR staff or qualified scientists. Requires DENR to assist stakeholder committee during the rule-making process and afterward to determine whether the rule is being followed and its effectiveness. Effective September 1, 2011.