Phillips-Hill and rothman Champion New Era of Regulatory Efficiency in Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania is advancing significant reforms to its permitting processes, building on previous successes and aiming to further reduce bureaucratic hurdles for businesses and individuals. Spearheaded by Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) and Senator Greg Rothman (R-Cumberland, Perry, and Dauphin), the new measures streamline applications, increase clarity, and establish clearer timelines for state agency decisions.
The recent changes, incorporated into a broader reform package, expand upon last year’s landmark permitting reform efforts. A key component is the implementation of automatic permit approval if state agencies fail to reach a decision within a pre-defined timeframe. This provision aims to provide applicants with greater certainty and predictability in the process.
“Pennsylvania has been hampered by outdated permitting systems for too long,” stated Senator phillips-Hill.”These reforms are designed to foster job growth and innovation by creating a permitting process that is fair, timely, and accountable.”
The reforms also broaden the scope of the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and development (SPEED) Program, making more industries eligible for expedited processing. Sectors including agriculture, energy, environmental management, and manufacturing will benefit from the expanded program.
To enhance public accountability, all state agencies are now mandated to provide real-time online tracking of permit applications.Furthermore, agencies will be required to publish annual reports detailing permit processing times and performance metrics, allowing for greater scrutiny and transparency.
Senator Rothman emphasized the economic impact of these changes, stating, “Removing permit-related delays will unlock job creation and chance for pennsylvanians.”
The initiative draws heavily from Senate Bill 6, legislation previously introduced by Phillips-Hill and Rothman that garnered bipartisan support. The senators affirmed their commitment to ongoing regulatory reform, aiming to position Pennsylvania as a competitive leader in attracting investment and fostering economic growth.
