Bill > H632

This bill establishes a regional dredge grants program within the Division of Waterways, which is part of the Department of Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture, to help fund the purchase of dredges and related equipment for public harbor dredging. A "regional entity" is defined as a municipality, a group of municipalities, or another organization that the department deems capable of managing the program financially and administratively. These regional entities will be responsible for operating and maintaining the dredging program, scheduling services, keeping records, and obtaining necessary permits. The department will report annually to specific legislative committees on the grants awarded, and the commissioner is authorized to create rules for the program. The total annual expenditure for this program will not exceed $2 million.