HI SB729

Creates a new annual report requirement for the director of the Office of Environmental Quality Control to submit to the governor and legislature by January 31 each year analyzing the effectiveness of the State's environmental review system.

Clarifies that the director is responsible for directing the office in implementing chapters 341 and 343 and may appoint exempt personnel for adequate staffing and funding.

Expands the environmental council from up to 15 members to exactly 15 members (director plus 14 appointed members) and limits the director's voting power to tie-breaking votes only.

Adds new duties for the office including conducting annual statewide workshops, publishing environmental review guidebooks, providing advisory opinions, maintaining an effective environmental review process, and developing an information technology system for tracking environmental documents.

Clarifies the environmental council's duties to include serving as advisor to the governor, consulting on statutory and rule changes, serving as liaison to the public on environmental matters, and making annual reports with improvement recommendations.