AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee voted last week to advance a bill sponsored by Rep. Jessica Fay, D-Raymond. LD 211, An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Water Supply Protection Funds, would allow water utilities to partner with conservation organizations to preserve land in order to protect water quality for their ratepayers.
"I thank the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee for their unanimous support of this legislation," said Fay. "It is these types of common-sense proposals that create opportunities for bipartisan cooperation. I am glad to be able to work with the Portland Water District, the Office of the Public Advocate and the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to protect water quality in the Sebago Lakes Region and across the state."
Under current law, water utilities are limited in how they may spend their water protection funds. They are currently allowed to unilaterally purchase land in order to protect water supplies. A water supply protection fund may be created from a surplus and is capped at 15% of annual revenue or $100,000, whichever is greater of the two amounts. Currently, these funds can only be used to purchase land outright.
"Allowing water utilities to work in partnership with others would further help to preserve land for hiking, hunting, fishing and other types of outdoor activities while at the same time protecting our water resources," said Fay.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate in the coming weeks.
Fay, House chair of the Government Oversight Committee and a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, is serving her fourth term in the Maine House of Representatives. She serves the community members of Casco, Frye Island, Raymond and part of Poland.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Fay], c. 305-965-2744