- Legislative Review
2008 Legislative Review
It appears that 2008 was another successful year in the legislature for positive environmental reform. Coalitions from across the state joined forces to endure many negotiations which resulted in the passage of improved water management policies during drought and greater protections for sensitive coastal waters from polluted stormwater runoff. Furthermore, PTRF and the environmental community were successful in fending off three bad bills; 1) hardening of North Carolina’s beaches; 2) Hog siting act amendments which would have stripped the public of protections; and 3) promoting of off-shore drilling; all of which died in committee.
House Bill H2499, Drought/ Water Management Recommendations
(From NC Conservation Network) On the last day of its 2008 short session, the NC General Assembly enacted H2499, Drought/ Water Management Recommendations, which Governor Easley has signed into law as S.L. 2008-143. The act strengthens North Carolina’s ability to weather droughts and takes several steps towards better management of our water resources. Read More.
Senate Bill 1967, Improve Coastal Stormwater Management
(From NC Coastal Federation) In a victory for protections of our coast's sensitve waters, the legislature has passed a bill that strengthens rulesl to stem the tide of polluted runoff in the 20 coastal counteis. The bill has been signed by the Governor and takes effect on October 1, 2008. Read more.