Environment

HB 109 creates a new permit review process for specific industrial facilities in Pennsylvania's designated "environmental justice areas" - communities with high pollution burdens and vulnerable populations (low-income, communities of color). It requires the Department of Environmental Protection to consider cumulative environmental and public health impacts when reviewing permits for facilities like large wastewater plants (50,000+ gal/day), major air polluters, waste sites (25+ tons/month), mining operations, and certain landfills. The bill mandates that permits in these areas must address disproportionate environmental impacts, as defined by demographic, economic, health, and environmental data. This directly affects developers and operators of industrial facilities seeking new or expanded permits in designated communities.

HB 620 increases the recycling fee for waste processing facilities in Pennsylvania from $2 to $5 per ton. The bill directly affects operators of municipal waste landfills and resource recovery facilities, requiring them to pay this fee on all solid waste processed at their facilities or disposed of at landfills (excluding certain residues). The key provision amends Section 701(a) of the 1988 Municipal Waste Planning Act to set the new fee amount. The change takes effect 60 days after enactment.

HB 362 amends Pennsylvania's 1929 Administrative Code to authorize the Energy Development Authority to administer federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 for the Solar for All Program. It directs the Authority to distribute funds for residential solar installations, storage, and upgrades to qualifying households across all Pennsylvania counties, prioritizing rural, suburban, and urban communities. The bill specifically prohibits using funds for solar panels or parts made with forced labor (defined as work performed under threat of penalty without voluntary consent) and requires the Public Utility Commission to protect non-participating ratepayers from cross-subsidization. This creates a clear administrative framework for implementing the federal program while adding labor and ratepayer safeguards.