Senate Bill 1068, Permitting of Wind Energy Facilities is back on the Senate floor, again, after a controversial discussion and re-referral to committee. This is the one that establishes a system of permits for the siting and operation of wind turbine farms. See previous post here.
Sen. Steve Goss, (D-Watauga), proposes an amendment. Due to great concern from the western part of the state, he would leave the coastal permitting in the bill and take out the rest of the state. Let the coastal communities continue but exempt the rest of the state, particularly the mountains, to further study the issue. They do love to study. Amendment fails: 10-36.
Vote on the bill: 45-1. Goss objects to third reading so the final vote is delayed until tomorrow.
