Georgia regulators are considering how to speed up the processing of environmental permits for firms willing to pay a premium.
A little-noticed Senate bill passed this year allows firms seeking permits from the Environmental Protection Division to pay a premium so they get results faster. The Georgia Chamber of Commerce pushed for the bill, saying that authority was helpful to attract new jobs and industries to Georgia.
Environmental watchdog groups call it the "pay-to-play" law.
Final program rules have not been adopted. State officials are still discussing how the system will work. The state government will still have final say on whether a permit is issued.
Critics worry about potential conflicts of interest between those seeking permits and those getting paid to do the reviews.
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Thursday, May 23 2013 10:44 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:44:36 GMT
The fox responsible for biting two Newton County elementary school students while they played on their school's playground remains on the loose.
The fox that bit two Newton County elementary school students while they played on the playground is still on the loose. Animal control authorities tell FOX 5 someone from Rocky Plains Elementary School reported a fox sighting on campus one day before the boys were attacked.
Thursday, May 23 2013 10:35 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:35:19 GMT
State leaders and military dignitaries took part in an annual Memorial Day ceremony at the state Capitol on Thursday.
State leaders and military dignitaries took part in an annual Memorial Day ceremony at the state Capitol on Thursday. Gov. Nathan Deal took part in solemn salute of those who lost their lives while serving our country.
Thursday, May 23 2013 10:26 PM EDT2013-05-24 02:26:47 GMT
The jury has found Michael Parson guilty on all eight counts in the shooting of his wife outside their Sandy Springs apartment.The woman, Adina Parson, survived after being shot eight times.
The jury has found Michael Parson guilty on all eight counts in the shooting of his wife outside their Sandy Springs apartment.The woman, Adina Parson, survived after being shot eight times.
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