Bill > LD1433

This bill establishes two key initiatives for the state of Maine. First, it creates a Working Waterfront Infrastructure Engineer Corps Pilot Program, which will run for two academic years (2026-2027 and 2027-2028) and involve 5 undergraduate or graduate students each year. The program, overseen by Maine Sea Grant at the University of Maine, will focus on helping students conduct vulnerability assessments of working waterfront infrastructure threatened by extreme weather, engage with municipalities, learn about project permitting and funding, and gain exposure to municipal careers. The program requires interim and final reports to be submitted to legislative committees, with potential recommendations for future legislation. Second, the bill mandates a feasibility study by the Maine Commission for Community Service, in collaboration with various educational institutions, to explore creating a higher education service corps program addressing critical areas such as coastal issues, transportation, energy, housing, land preservation, community resilience, education, and public health. The study will examine potential program operations across multiple campuses and requires a report to be submitted by December 3, 2025. The bill also includes a one-time allocation of $90,000 in general funds for the pilot program in the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1433&snum=132