relative to landfill siting.

This bill requires the state Department of Environmental Services to create a two-step permitting process for new solid waste landfills. The first step is a preliminary screening where applicants must provide enough information to show their proposed site does not violate specific location rules, such as being near permeable soils or sensitive habitats. If a site fails this initial check, the department will reject the application without prejudice, allowing the applicant to choose a different location and resubmit. The department will establish these prohibitive criteria through public hearings and written comments, focusing on factors like soil quality, distance from waste sources, and environmental preservation. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill passes, with existing rules remaining in place until July 1, 2025.