Environment (Water Quality)

HB 1587 requires Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to approve or deny environmental permits within 45 days of receiving a complete application. If the DEQ misses this deadline, the permit is automatically approved, and the applicant must only pay the required fee. This bill directly affects developers, businesses, and others seeking permits for projects involving air or water pollution controls, such as construction or industrial operations. The law aims to prevent delays in the permitting process by setting strict timelines and automatic approval if the DEQ fails to act.