Bill > H2324

This bill establishes a legal framework for municipalities, water districts, and other local authorities to create Sustainable Water Resource Funds, which would allow these entities to collect fees from water users to support environmental conservation and water infrastructure improvements. The fees can be used exclusively for measures that remedy and offset environmental impacts from water usage, such as stormwater recharge, water conservation, habitat improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and land acquisition for protecting water sources. The fee structure can vary based on different types of usage (residential or commercial) and would be designed to incentivize water conservation, potentially charging users based on the volume of water used or the impact on local water systems. The funds would be kept in separate, dedicated accounts and can receive money from various sources including gifts, grants, federal reimbursements, and environmental penalties. Local authorities can choose to adopt or revoke this funding mechanism, and the funds must be used strictly for water-related environmental and infrastructure purposes. The bill aims to provide a sustainable, locally-controlled approach to managing water resources and mitigating environmental impacts of water usage.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2324