Stormwater runoff is a widespread problem that can have a devastating impact on life, property and communities across Pennsylvania. Stormwater is also one of the most significant sources of pollution to our rivers and streams.
Thanks to the passage of Senator Ted Erickson's, R-Delaware, Pa. Senate Bill 351, which became Act 68 of 2013, local governments in Pennsylvania now have a new tool to address problems caused by flooding and polluted runoff. Act 68 allows municipalities, individually or jointly, to form stormwater authorities.
Stormwater authorities will allow communities to work together to address stormwater issues on a watershed basis. They could also provide a potential source of stable funding for stormwater projects and planning as municipalities work to fulfill their federal and state clean water obligations.
This week, the state Senate Local Government Committee unanimously approved another bill sponsored by Senator Erickson that will give these new stormwater authorities an option to promote cost-effective stormwater management.
Pa. Senate Bill 1255 would give stormwater authorities the option to establish a program to allow property owners to reduce any charges or fees by implementing and maintaining best stormwater management practices. These best management practices would reduce the contribution to flooding and polluted runoff from individual properties and provide an incentive for private stormwater management.
PennFuture appreciates the support of SB 1255 by state Senate Local Government Committee Chair John Eichelberger, R-Blair, and his quickly moving the bill. We now look forward to working with the full Senate to pass the bill.
Steve Stroman is state policy director for PennFuture and is based in Harrisburg.
