HB 2339-S - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

     Declares that the purpose of the act is to support the establishment of mitigation banks by providing a predictable, efficient, regulatory framework, including timely review of mitigation bank proposals.

     Declares it is not the intent to create any new authority for regulating wetlands or wetlands banks beyond what is specifically provided for in this act.

     Declares an intent that, in the development and adoption of rules for banks, the department establish and use a collaborative process involving interested public and private entities.

     Defines "wetlands mitigation bank" or "bank" as a site where wetlands are restored, created, enhanced, or in exceptional circumstances, preserved expressly for the purpose of providing compensatory mitigation in advance of authorized impacts to similar resources.