Press Statement  Auditor Bump Statement on Governor Baker’s Water Permit Proposal

Boston — State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump released the following statement on the legislative proposal filed by Governor Charlie Baker today to allow the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to assume responsibility for issuing stormwater permits:

“The proposal put forth by the Governor is the right decision for municipalities because it will help create a more holistic water regulatory system, providing a simpler process for permitting projects. Another argument in favor of this proposal is the apparent intention of President Donald Trump to deprive the EPA of sufficient resources to support its mission. Recognizing that state assumption of this responsibility must have adequate funding, I suggest also that the Legislature consider funding mechanisms in addition to annual appropriations.”

In January, Bump’s Division of Local Mandates released a study on the water infrastructure needs of municipalities in the state. The study found that 90 percent of communities with an opinion prefer state administration of stormwater permits, as opposed to federal administration. The study recommends the Legislature approve legislation to allow the Department of Environmental Protection to assume responsibility for issuing these permits. However, it recommends the proposal be funded using a combination of state general funds, a user fee, and a fee paid by major point industrial and commercial sources.

Read the municipal impact study from Bump's office on water infrastructure.