Woolfolk, Mr. Michael; compensate

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stacey Evans and 3 co-sponsors

HR 118 establishes a working group to survey and protect culturally significant shorelines from erosion, ensuring local heritage and environmental preservation.

House Withdrawn, Recommitted

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 118
Title: Requesting the Department of Land and Natural Resources to Establish a Collaborative Working Group to Survey, Identify, and Monitor Culturally Sensitive Shorelines Impacted by Erosion
Status: Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1817), recommending adoption
Introduced: January 03, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Department of Land and Natural Resources, Erosion, Shorelines, Working Group

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 118 is to address the ongoing issue of shoreline erosion, particularly in areas that hold cultural significance. The bill seeks to establish a collaborative working group under the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to:

Survey shorelines that are culturally sensitive.

Identify the specific impacts of erosion on these shorelines.

Monitor changes and propose strategies for protection and preservation.

Key Provisions

Establishment of a Working Group: The bill mandates the formation of a working group that will include stakeholders from various sectors, including cultural experts, environmental scientists, and community representatives.

Focus on Culturally Sensitive Areas: The working group will prioritize shorelines that are significant to local cultures and communities, ensuring that their historical and cultural contexts are considered in erosion management strategies.

Monitoring and Reporting: The group will be responsible for ongoing monitoring of the identified shorelines and will report findings and recommendations to the DLNR.

Impact

Affected Parties: The bill will impact local communities, particularly those whose cultural heritage is tied to specific shorelines. It will also involve state agencies and environmental organizations that focus on coastal management and cultural preservation.

Environmental and Cultural Preservation: By focusing on culturally sensitive areas, the bill aims to protect both the environment and the cultural heritage of local communities, fostering a collaborative approach to shoreline management.

Legislative Timeline

January 03, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

March 20, 2025: Referred to the Committee on Water and Land (WAL) and Finance (FIN).

March 25, 2025: WAL recommended the measure be passed with amendments.

March 31, 2025: FIN recommended the measure be passed, unamended.

April 03, 2025: Resolution adopted in final form with a majority voting in favor.

Related Legislation

HCR 122: This bill serves as a companion to HR 118, potentially addressing similar issues or providing additional context.

In summary, HR 118 represents a proactive step towards addressing the challenges of shoreline erosion while respecting and preserving the cultural significance of affected areas. The establishment of a collaborative working group is intended to facilitate a comprehensive approach to these pressing issues.

Bill