Senate passes legislation on authority of Clean Water Commission

The Missouri Senate Thursday gave its final approval to the first major environmental bill of the session.

SB 664 sponsored by Sen. Dan Brown (R-Rolla) modifies the authority of the Clean Water Commission so that it may only revise water quality standards upon completion of an assessment by the Department of Natural Resources finding that there is an environmental need for such a revision.

In implementing revised water quality standards modifications of 25% or more, the Department of Natural Resources shall also conduct an evaluation. The department shall use these evaluations in making site-specific permit decisions.

The bill was third read a passed by the Senate by a 26-6 margin Thursday without debate.