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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | November 29, 2023 10:06 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Clint Owlett |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Simplified DEP Permits for Diversifying Small Farms |
| I attended an Ag breakfast where a young lady spoke very eloquently about preserving the farming industry and noted that a serious inhibiting factor is permitting issues in Pennsylvania. It is clear that the farming industry is critical in Pennsylvania, but it is also clear that this industry has struggled recently due to numerous economic challenges. Our state government should not be adding to these challenges, and in fact, we should help be part of the solution that enables these farms to reshape their focus and adapt to economic conditions by diversifying their offerings. To that end, the legislation which I will introduce will require that the DEP create a simplified earthmoving permit for smaller dairy farms who are seeking to improve their properties. This permit would be able to be completed simply on one sheet of paper and would not require the hiring of an engineer to complete. In addition, DEP would need to process and approve or reject these permits within 30 days. Only projects that would have an earth disturbance of less than 5 acres would be eligible to apply for this type of permit. Please join me in cosponsoring this important and timely legislation to assist small farmers in making the necessary changes to their operations to survive under these trying economic conditions. It is critical that government be part of the solution and not part of the problem as we look to maintain this essential industry in our state. |