HARRISBURG — Legislation introduced by Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) to reduce excessive fees imposed on private property owners maintaining shoreline protection structures along Lake Erie has been voted out of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee unanimously.
Senate Bill 109 aims to address a disparity in current regulations that classify groins—shoreline protection structures designed to prevent erosion—as commercial structures, subjecting private owners to sharply increased annual fees imposed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The cost for private owners has risen from $25 to $750 per year, while government-owned groins remain exempt from these charges.
“Erie County is home to one of the most beautiful shorelines in the country, and it’s critical that we provide fairness to those working to preserve it,” Laughlin said. “The dramatic fee increase places an undue burden on private property owners who are doing their part to protect our beaches.”
The legislation would adjust the classification of groins in state law, ensuring that private owners are not unfairly targeted with excessive fees while DEP and other government agencies continue to be exempt.
“The state should not be penalizing private citizens for helping to maintain and protect our natural resources,” Laughlin added. “This bill will help ensure fairness in the permitting process and encourage continued efforts to preserve our coastline.”
The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit www.senatorlaughlin.com or follow Senator Laughlin on Facebook and Twitter @senatorlaughlin.
CONTACT
Chris Carroll
Phone: 814-453-2515
Email: ccarroll@pasen.gov