One week after passage in the State Senate, the Republican-controlled State Assembly has passed a bill to help developers secure wetland construction permits. The measure now goes to Gov. Scott Walker, who says he will sign it into law.
The bill would create a two-tiered construction permit system for wetlands – developers could apply to the DNR for a general permit or an individual permit for more specialized projects. Individual permit applicants would have to submit mitigation plans.
In addition, the plans could include purchasing credits from entities that have already restored wetlands, either paying the DNR to support wetland restoration work, or improving or restoring other wetlands within a half-mile of the project or within the project’s watershed.
Business groups say the measure is needed to help more companies expand.
Environmentalists believe many acres of wetlands, and the fragile wildlife contained within, could be destroyed, and warn the state now faces an increased risk of flooding.
Upon Assembly action, Gov. Walker released a statement that the bill balances the needs of businesses and the environment.
