HB 437 Summary

• Prohibits waiver of public hearings for variance applications involving shoreline hardening structures (seawalls, revetments, groin) that artificially fix the shoreline.

• Requires the coastal zone management authority to make four specific written findings before granting a variance for shoreline hardening structures: feasibility and cost of relocation, likelihood and severity of damage without the structure, feasibility of alternative protection methods, and whether the structure is the reasonable and practical alternative.

• Applies conditions to shoreline hardening variances including maintaining lateral shoreline access, minimizing impacts on beach processes, preventing structural failure, and minimizing adverse effects on public views.

• Excludes shoreline hardening structures from exemptions that allow certain structures and activities in shoreline areas without requiring variances.

• Effective date: July 1, 2050.