The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced it has processed nearly 20,000 permit applications since effects from the Covid-19 pandemic began in March, a figure that is within 94% of its Permit Decision Guarantee timeframe. It cited the use of cloud-based tools and Gov. Tom Wolf’s e-Permitting initiative as reasons for how the agency improved efficiency while continuing to protect the environment. “It is a testament to the dedication of DEP staff that they are demonstrating high performance standards despite the tumult caused by the pandemic,” DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell said in a press release.
“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, DEP staff have ensured that permit applications are thoroughly reviewed. Through new technology solutions like the OnBase permit application submissions, we are improving the efficiency of our reviews while still ensuring compliance with environmental laws and regulations.” The department said it has processed 19,971 permits applications and authorizations since it switched to telework in late March. It launched its OnBase permit submission tool in June 2020 to try and improve the permit review process and added that more than 2,000 applications have already been submitted using OnBase.
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