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LD 1382

An Act Regarding Dam Repair

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Bishop and 3 co-sponsors

LD 1382 - An Act Regarding Dam Repair OverviewBill Number: LD 1382 Title: An Act Regarding Dam Repair Status: CARRIED OVER, in the same posture, to any special or regular session

Died in Possession of the Senate when the Legislature adjourned Sine Die and was PLACED IN THE LEGISLATIVE FILES. (DEAD)
#dams #maintenance #repair
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Bill Summary · LD 1382

LD 1382 - An Act Regarding Dam Repair

Overview

Bill Number: LD 1382
Title: An Act Regarding Dam Repair
Status: CARRIED OVER, in the same posture, to any special or regular session of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order SP 800.
Introduced: April 01, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This bill aims to establish a comprehensive program for the repair and maintenance of dams across the state. The primary goal is to address the growing number of aging and deteriorating dams that pose risks to public safety and the environment. The legislation recognizes the importance of dams for flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreational uses, and seeks to ensure their long-term viability through increased funding and oversight.

Key Provisions

  • Creates the Dam Repair and Maintenance Fund, a dedicated funding source for dam projects, financed through a new dam safety fee and annual appropriations
  • Requires the Department of Environmental Protection to conduct statewide assessments of dam conditions and develop a prioritized repair plan
  • Establishes a grant program to provide financial assistance to dam owners for necessary repairs and upgrades
  • Mandates regular inspections of high-hazard and significant-hazard dams, with owners responsible for maintenance and repairs
  • Empowers the DEP to order emergency repairs or the removal of unsafe dams that pose an imminent threat

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Dam owners, including state and local governments, private entities, and individuals, who will be responsible for maintaining their dams and accessing grant funding for repairs
  • Residents and businesses downstream of dams, who will benefit from improved public safety and reduced flood risks
  • Environmental groups and recreational users, who will see improved water quality and access to waterways as dams are repaired or removed
  • The DEP, which will oversee the new dam assessment, repair, and inspection programs, requiring additional staffing and resources

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill was introduced in the 131st Maine Legislature and has been carried over to the 132nd Legislature, indicating that it did not pass during the regular session. The carryover means the bill will be considered again in the next legislative session, potentially with additional amendments or changes. If passed, the new dam repair and maintenance programs would likely take several years to fully implement, as the DEP conducts statewide assessments and develops the grant funding mechanisms.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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