The Department of Environmental Protection published a draft of its Public Participation Policy for the Permit Review Process for publication in the June 22 PA Bulletin. The policy is open for public comment until July 22.

The draft policy proposes guidelines for public participation during DEP’s permit review process. The policy includes procedures for public hearings and receiving and responding to public comments.

“This new policy will emphasize the importance and benefits of engaging the public, regulated community and other stakeholders in a meaningful and upfront manner,” Acting DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo said.

The policy will apply to all permits and authorizations that are published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, the Commonwealth’s official informational gazette published by the Pennsylvania Legislative Reference Bureau.

A copy of the draft policy is available online.

6/24/2013