Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires state agencies to establish public, online tracking systems for state permits in Pennsylvania.

Highlights:

• Requires a state agency to compile, maintain, and make available a complete list of all types of permits issued by the agency within 90 days, which shall also be transmitted to the Legislative Reference Bureau and include the following information (Sec. 4):

• The program under which the permit is issued;

• The statutory and regulatory authority for each permit;

• The time frame when the State agency must issue each permit; and

• The average time frame within which each permit is issued.

• Requires state agencies to establish a secure tracking system for applicants to track their application online within 60 days (Sec. 5).

• Requires state agencies to inform applicants of receipt within 5 days of receiving the application (Sec. 5).

• Requires the tracking system to include the following information (Sec. 5):

• The processing time for each permit;

• The dates associated with each stage of review and decision making;

• Estimated time remaining for each phase of the approval process; and

• The identity and contact information for state agency employees assigned to answer questions about the application process.

• Requires state agency to notify the applicant in writing or electronic means if the application is incomplete or technically deficient (Sec. 6).

• Requires the state agency to notify the permit holder if any changes are made or if the permit expires (Sec. 7).

• Requires state agencies to establish a program to review permit decision delays and issues within six months (Sec. 9).

• Requires state agencies to issue annual reports, including application information such as the number received, reviewed, and the processing time for each step, no later than January 31st of each year (Sec. 10).

• Establishes the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity to do the following (Sec. 11):

• Coordinate and expedite interagency cooperation;

• Marshal federal and state resources to maximize economic development opportunities; and

• Leverage the role of the Governor to engage with the global business community.

Full Bill Text