Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD1845

Introduced
4/30/25  
Refer
4/30/25  
Refer
4/30/25  

Caption

An Act to Establish the Working Waterfront Advisory Council

Impact

The creation of the Working Waterfront Advisory Council signifies a strategic move to better manage and preserve the state’s waterfront resources, which are crucial for economic activities, including fishing and tourism. The council is charged with evaluating the current state of working waterfronts and making recommendations to improve access and functionality. By accumulating data and insights on various facets like climate resilience, housing affordability, and public-private collaborations, the council aims to propose actionable legislation that addresses real-world challenges in coastal communities.

Summary

LD1845 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing the Working Waterfront Advisory Council in the state. The council is tasked with addressing various issues affecting the working waterfronts, which are vital to the state’s economy and cultural heritage. By creating a structured advisory body, the legislation intends to enhance collaboration among stakeholders, including local municipalities, businesses, and Indigenous communities, in addressing challenges that these waterfronts face. The council is designed to meet quarterly and report annually on the status and recommendations regarding working waterfronts, focusing on sustainability and resource management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD1845 appears mostly favorable among stakeholders who recognize the importance of protecting and enhancing working waterfronts. Supporters believe that the establishment of the council demonstrates commitment to prioritizing marine resources and community development. However, there may also be concerns about the adequacy of resources allocated to the council and the effectiveness of its recommendations. The bill reflects a growing trend toward recognizing the need for specialized attention to issues affecting coastal and marine environments.

Contention

Notably, while the bill is generally well-received, points of contention could arise regarding the representation on the council and the depth of its authority to influence legislation. Ensuring that diverse voices, including those from underrepresented communities, are adequately represented might spark debates. Additionally, stakeholders may question how the council’s recommendations will translate into actionable policies and whether sufficient funding will follow to support the initiatives outlined.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD2064

An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding Certain Advisory Councils and Boards Related to the Department of Marine Resources

ME LD1179

An Act to Reestablish the Marine Recreational Fishery Advisory Council at the Department of Marine Resources

ME LD2001

Resolve, to Establish the African American and Wabanaki Studies Advisory Council and Provide Funding to Support African American Studies and Wabanaki Studies

ME LD2162

An Act Regarding the Current Use Valuation of Working Waterfront Property

ME LD1559

An Act to Advance the State's Public Transit Systems by Reinvigorating the Public Transit Advisory Council

ME LD1903

Resolve, to Create an Advisory Council to Oversee the Review and Technical Revision of the Maine Criminal Code and Other Statutes Establishing Criminal Offenses

ME LD1927

An Act to Create the Rural Prosperity Council

ME LD2125

An Act to Establish the Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias Advisory Council Within the Department of Health and Human Services and to Require a State Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias

ME LD1083

An Act to Amend the Membership of the Rare Disease Advisory Council

ME LD574

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Working Waterfront Covenants

Similar Bills

PA HB762

Providing for the Waterfront Redevelopment Grant Program; establishing the Waterfront Redevelopment Fund; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of Community and Economic Development.

ME LD1625

An Act Regarding the Preservation of Working Waterfronts

US HB1808

Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act of 2025

US HB6641

Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act

ME LD1245

An Act to Establish a Fund and Council to Support Working Waterfronts

US SB5570

A bill to amend title 23, United States Code, to establish a grant program to rebuild and improve transportation infrastructure at urban waterfronts, and for other purposes.

US SB4800

Waterfront Community Revitalization and Resiliency Act of 2024

ME LD2162

An Act Regarding the Current Use Valuation of Working Waterfront Property