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LD 430

An Act To Impose Moratoria On Hydropower Dam Removal And On Water Release From Nonhydropower Dams And To Make Other Changes To The Laws Regulating Such Dams

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dick Campbell and 3 co-sponsors

Maine bill proposing moratoriums on hydropower dam removal and water releases from non-hydropower dams died in committee without passage in April 2025.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
#dams #hydroelectricdamremoval #maintenance
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Bill Summary · LD 430

Legislative bill overview

LD 430 proposed imposing moratoriums on both hydropower dam removal and water release modifications from non-hydropower dams in Maine, along with other regulatory changes to dam operations. The bill was introduced but ultimately received an "Ought Not to Pass" (ONTP) recommendation and died in legislative files in April 2025, meaning it did not advance to a vote for passage.

Why is this important

Dam removal and water management are contentious environmental policy issues in Maine, affecting river restoration, fish migration, hydroelectric power generation, and water quality. The competing interests—ecological restoration advocates versus hydropower operators and dam owners—represent fundamental disagreements about how to balance energy production with environmental recovery.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental restoration vs. energy production: Dam removal supporters argue it restores river ecosystems and fish populations; opponents contend it eliminates renewable energy generation and infrastructure investments
  • Water release standards: Determining appropriate water discharge levels from dams affects downstream ecosystems, flood risk, recreational use, and industrial operations dependent on water availability
  • Regulatory burden and property rights: Dam owners may view moratoriums as government overreach limiting their management flexibility; environmental advocates see regulation as necessary to prevent ecological harm

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

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