summary
Introduced
02/06/2026
02/06/2026
In Committee
02/24/2026
02/24/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Natural Resource Restoration Trust Fund Act. Provides that the Department of Natural Resources shall establish the Natural Resource Restoration Trust Grant Program to make grants to applicants for the restoration or replacement of injured or damaged natural resources resulting from claims pursued under the laws of the United States, the laws of this State, other statutory laws, or common law. Provides that the following entities may apply for grants under the Act: (i) units of local government; (ii) soil and water conservation districts; (iii) area-wide agencies, including counties, regional planning agencies, or both; (iv) nonprofit organizations; (iv) public or private institutes of higher education; (v) port authorities; and (vi) federally recognized tribes. Provides that the Department shall issue grants if (i) the requested grant complies with the purpose for which the Department was to provide funds and is subject to the requirements of all applicable court orders and (ii) the grant complies with the criteria established by administrative rule for the issuance of the grant. Provides that grants shall not be awarded to a grantee that is responsible for the pollution event that is the subject or basis for the issuance of the grant. Effective July 1, 2027.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a new Natural Resource Restoration Trust Grant Program, administered by the Department of Natural Resources, to provide funding for the restoration or replacement of natural resources that have been harmed or damaged due to legal claims. Eligible applicants for these grants include local governments, soil and water conservation districts, area-wide agencies like counties and regional planning bodies, nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions, port authorities, and federally recognized tribes. To receive a grant, applicants must demonstrate that their proposed project aligns with the program's purpose and any relevant court orders, and meets criteria set by administrative rules. Importantly, any entity responsible for the pollution event that caused the damage will not be eligible to receive these restoration grants. This program is set to begin on July 1, 2027.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Assigned to Appropriations (on 02/24/2026)
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