MD SB371

Repeals the requirement that a person must obtain a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) discharge permit from the Department of the Environment before beginning construction on any part of a new CAFO

Authorizes the Department of the Environment to allow construction on new animal feeding operations through an alternative approval process when the general discharge permit for animal feeding operations has been administratively extended

Requires persons seeking construction approval under the new process to demonstrate compliance with the administratively extended general discharge permit requirements and all other applicable laws, regulations, and construction permits

Removes the prohibition preventing the Department from issuing CAFO discharge permits to persons who began construction without first obtaining a permit

Designated as an emergency measure requiring three-fifths vote in both houses of the General Assembly, taking effect immediately upon enactment