Revises provisions relating to dams. (BDR 48-261)
AB26 modifies the permit requirements for dam construction, allowing individuals to construct, reconstruct, or alter a dam only with the approval of the State Engineer, instead of obtaining a permit as previously required. Furthermore, the bill relieves some federal works, such as those overseen by the United States Bureau of Reclamation and the Army Corps of Engineers, from certain regulations. It mandates that applications regarding dam decommissioning or alterations be made accessible to the Department of Wildlife, thereby attempting to address ecological considerations in water resource management.
Assembly Bill 26 (AB26) aims to revise existing provisions regarding the construction, reconstruction, and alteration of dams in Nevada. A significant change introduced by the bill is the exemption of the State Engineer and authorized agents from liability for damages arising from the failure of a dam or reservoir while performing inspections or responding to emergencies. This change is intended to facilitate more responsive regulatory actions without the concern of liability, potentially leading to quicker interventions in case of structural issues.
The bill's shifts in liability and regulatory responsibilities may raise concerns among environmental advocates and local communities regarding oversight and safety. The lack of liability for the State Engineer may lead some to worry that it could induce negligence in supervision. On the other hand, proponents argue that this bill streamlines processes and reduces bureaucratic red tape, which could foster better management of water resources in Nevada. The dialogue surrounding AB26 will likely explore the balance between ensuring safety and promoting efficiency in dam management.