Pennsylvania American Water Voices Support for DEP’s New Permit Decision Guarantee Program

Pennsylvania American Water today expressed strong support for the Permit Decision Guarantee Program, which Governor Tom Corbett created on July 24 through executive order. The governor’s Executive Order 2012-11 directs the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish the program, which is intended to make permit decisions “within established processing times for complete and technically adequate applications.”

“We believe this program is necessary to put permit application requirements in place that will eliminate confusion and delay in DEP’s permitting process,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape. “From a business viewpoint, the priority for every applicant should be to ensure that only comprehensive and technically sound applications are submitted for DEP review, and only those applications that meet this standard should be eligible for the permit decision guarantee. As a result, both DEP and the applicant can be assured that the permit application will be processed within a predictable timeframe.”

Pape added, “This program is an excellent example of how the private sector and government can work together to improve the quality of life and economic opportunity for residents, while ensuring that our natural resources are protected.”

Pape said the Permit Decision Guarantee Program will make DEP’s review process more efficient, while requiring applicants to provide complete, technically adequate submittals will enable DEP to make timely decisions without compromising its responsibility to protect the environment. “We are also encouraged that DEP will develop enhanced information technology tools that will pave the way for greater efficiency and consistency in the permitting process,” she said.

Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.2 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs approximately 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to an estimated 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.