Among the issues still unresolved by the legislature in its closing hours is HB 987, legislation requiring many counties to establish stormwater utility fees, to generate revenues for stormwater retrofitting and remediation projects.

MACo opposed the original bill, but was instrumental in assisting with numerous implementation amendments, and assisted in bill amendments to limit its scope to those counties (10) already subject to certain rigorous EPA permits.

As the bill awaits discussion on the Senate floor, some discussion is expected on whether the fee should apply to state and local government owned properties.

Following final approval from the Senate, the amended bill would need to be approved by the full House of Delegates before the end of the session at midnight tonight.