Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD646

Introduced
2/20/25  
Refer
2/20/25  
Engrossed
5/6/25  

Caption

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study Unmanaged Storm Water Pollution

Impact

If enacted, LD646 will enhance the capabilities of state laws regarding environmental protection. It aims to close knowledge gaps in the current understanding of storm water pollution management. The commission's findings are expected to lead to practical recommendations for legislation that can mitigate pollution sources and improve environmental resilience against challenges posed by climate change, urbanization, and legacy pollution sources. This has the potential to shape future regulations and policy recommendations that may emerge from this study.

Summary

LD646, titled 'Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study Unregulated Storm Water Pollution,' seeks to address the issue of storm water pollution in the state. The bill proposes the establishment of a commission tasked with reviewing and analyzing existing scientific literature and data on storm water pollution. This commission will focus on identifying the environmental impacts of storm water pollution on public health, freshwater and marine species, and critical habitats beneficial for commercially important species. The intent is to create a clearer understanding of the state of storm water pollution and its implications.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding LD646 appears to be supportive, as it emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship and public health. Stakeholders, including environmental advocates and legislative sponsors, view the establishment of the commission as a proactive measure to safeguard water quality and community health. However, there may also be some concerns about bureaucratic delays and the effectiveness of appointed members in addressing these significant environmental issues in a timely manner.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the commission's recommendations once they are drafted. While the bill is designed to gather data and propose solutions, there could be disagreements over proposed regulations that emerge from the commission’s findings, especially regarding the balance between economic development and environmental protection. Additionally, there may be challenges in securing adequate funding and staffing for the commission's operations, which could affect its ability to enact substantial changes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD941

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study Improvements to Conventional Infrastructure and Storm Water Management at the Former Brunswick Naval Air Station

ME LD1495

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study the Role of Critical Minerals as a Resource in the State

ME LD1406

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study MaineCare Estate Recovery

ME LD291

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Feasibility of Establishing a Recovery High School in the State

ME LD1641

Resolve, to Further Study the Role of Water as a Resource

ME LD1015

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study the Foreclosure Process

ME LD1264

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Update Maine's Public Policy on Higher Education

ME LD139

Resolve, Establishing the Commission to Study the Liability of Parents and Legal Guardians for Damage by Minors

ME LD1754

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Delivery of Services to Children and Families

ME LD1067

Resolve, to Create the Commission to Study the Operations of the Maine Legislature

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.