The Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill aimed at overhauling the state’s permitting process. The legislation, led by Senators Kristin Phillips-Hill and Greg Rothman, seeks to introduce greater accountability, transparency, and efficiency in how state agencies handle permit applications.
Senate Bill 6 introduces defined timelines for state agencies to review permit applications. It also establishes a permit tracking system and requires agencies to provide applicants with timely and consistent responses. The bill mandates regular performance reporting, allowing the public to monitor government actions.
“When permitting is unpredictable, so is investment,” said Phillips-Hill. “By passing this bill in the Senate, we’re sending a strong message that delays and inaction are no longer acceptable. We are saying Pennsylvania is open for business.”
The proposed reforms expand on the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program, which was previously enacted and required the Department of Environmental Protection to implement a permit tracking system. The new bill extends these requirements to all state agencies.
“Transparency and accountability in the permitting process will provide needed certainty, reduce delays, and encourage investment in Pennsylvania,” Rothman said. “These reforms will both transform and grow the Pennsylvania economy.”
The legislation also incorporates elements of Governor Josh Shapiro’s Executive Order, ensuring that the reforms remain in place regardless of changes in administration.
The bill will now be considered by the House of Representatives.
