A bill from Sen. Phil Fortunato (R–Auburn) is intended to reduce “superfluous” State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) paperwork. SB 6470 declares that an applicant whose project, action, or project decision is described as being exempt or categorically exempt under SEPA is not required to file a checklist or any other paperwork to prove the categorical exemption if the initial application contains sufficient information showing that the project, action, or project decision is exempt or categorically exempt.

We think this is generally consistent with previous city interests in SEPA reform, but we need guidance on whether the construction of this bill is implementable for your city. Please send feedback to Shannon.

Dates to remember

SB 6470 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee at 10am on Tuesday, January 28.