Bill > LD1696

This bill establishes a 17-member Commission to Study Maine's Absolute Dominion and Beneficial Use Laws Relating to Water Rights, with members appointed by the Senate President and House Speaker. The commission will include legislators, representatives from various water-related organizations, environmental groups, legal experts, and state agencies. Its primary duties include reviewing a previous water resource report, examining the history and current legal status of groundwater rights in Maine (including a specific court case called Maddocks v. Giles), studying water rights approaches from other states (such as absolute dominion, reasonable use, and prior appropriation doctrines), and evaluating the environmental, economic, and social impacts of different water rights management strategies. The commission is tasked with developing comprehensive findings and recommendations for potential policy and statutory changes to promote more equitable and sustainable water resource management in Maine. By December 3, 2025, the commission must submit a report to the Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, which may then propose related legislation for the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. The Legislative Council will provide necessary staffing support for the commission, except during legislative sessions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1696&snum=132