A bill that would improve the EPA's storm water permitting  process was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 9 with NAHB's support. Currently, storm water permitting requirements and regulations can add anywhere from $1,400 to $4,500 to the cost of a lot, which has a significant impact on overall housing affordability. H.R.5558, the "Storm Water Enforcement and Permitting Act," would streamline the permit process, improve compliance and protect the environment. A few examples of changes that the bill calls for include (1) allowing builders a one-time chance to correct permit deficiencies that don't cause environmental harm; (2) allowing authorized states to assume the lead enforcement role for storm water permits; and (3) developing a program to increase awareness of regulatory requirements by residential construction site managers. This legislation was introduced by Rep. John Duncan (R-TN) and 17 bipartisan cosponsors.
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