Bill > H221

This bill authorizes the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to establish a regional dredge grants program, which will provide funding to regional entities for the purchase of dredges and related capital equipment. A "regional entity" is defined as a municipality, a group of municipalities, or another organization that the DEM deems capable of managing funds and operations. These regional entities will be responsible for running public harbor dredging programs, including operating and maintaining the equipment, scheduling services, keeping records, and obtaining necessary permits. The DEM will report annually on the grants awarded, and the commissioner is empowered to create rules and regulations for the program. The total amount the DEM can spend on this program is capped at $2 million, with funds available for use until June 30, 2006.