Senator Steven Oroho, (R-Sussex, Warren, Morris) expressed his support for sensible changes to state water quality management regulations that will no longer hinder reasonable economic growth yet maintain key environmental standards.

Sen. Steven Oroho expressed support for changes to state water quality management regulations that will allow economic growth while maintaining key environmental standards. (Pixabay)

“The water quality management plan drafted by the previous administration forced municipalities to adopt extremely complex and overly broad regulations that put local planning agencies at odds with the DEP,” Senator Oroho said. “We cannot continue to enforce a ‘one-size-fits-all’ set of mandates. Our communities must have the flexibility to develop clear and consistent land-use plans that recognize zoning and environmental impacts that are unique to each municipality.”

The proposed NJ Water Quality Management Plan allows growth in suitable areas/ ensures environmental protections https://t.co/brN1tkxxZW

— Senator Steven Oroho (@stevenoroho) November 10, 2015

The Governor’s proposed overhaul of the 2008 Water Quality Management Plan allows counties and towns to effectively identify suitable areas for implementing wastewater infrastructure. The proposed rule also cuts unnecessary red tape by removing duplicate and overlapping DEP regulations.

“As a member of the Red Tape Review Commission, I am committed to protecting New Jersey residents from inefficient and oppressive regulations,” Senator Oroho added. “I am pleased to support the Governor’s proposal to ease this planning process to allow for growth in suitable areas while also providing long-term protection for the state’s environment.”

The first of the three public hearings on the proposed rule change is being held in Morris County today (Nov. 10). The 60 day public comment period ends December 18, 2015.

“As sponsor of the bipartisan legislation which gave counties and municipalities more time to comply and the DEP the ability to develop a less cumbersome sewer service plan, I think the result is positive for both the economy and the environment,” concluded Senator Oroho.