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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A former Atlanta police officer has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after prosecutors say he conspired to accept bribes and lied to FBI agents.
A former Atlanta police officer has been sentenced to two years in federal prison after prosecutors say he conspired to accept bribes and lied to FBI agents.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 3:16 PM EDT2013-06-18 19:16:11 GMT
Music Midtown announced its 2013 lineup on Tuesday.
Music Midtown announced its 2013 lineup on Tuesday. The music festival, which is being held Sept. 20 and 21 at Piedmont Park, will include Journey, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Queens of the Stone Age, 2 Chainz and Jane's Addiction.
