An important part of our work is advocating for lake-related legislation in Augusta. This month, our Executive Director, Lidie Robbins, testified on two bills, LD 171, An Act Regarding Invasive Aquatic Plant Infestations, and LD 296, An Act to Fund the Lake Restoration and Protection Fund.
On Wednesday, February 26, the Environment and Natural Resources Committee voted unanimously to support LD 296 (linked above). Although the funding was reduced from $2 million over two years to $1 million, this is an important testament to and recognition of the value of Maine’s lakes. While the bill still has a long road ahead as it moves through the Legislature and onto Appropriations, the testimony submitted by 43 individuals and organizations will be critical to helping move it forward. Thank you to all who spoke up!
The next priority bill is LD 646: Resolve Establishing the Commission to Study Unregulated Storm Water Pollution. The hearing is Monday, March 3rd at 10 AM. 30 Mile is in support of this bill. Stormwater pollution is a growing threat to our lakes, ponds, and streams, especially as the intense storms driven by climate change are overwhelming our roads and culverts. Maine’s stormwater regulations have not kept pace with increasing development and stronger storms. For a fact sheet on the bill, created by Maine’s Environmental Priorities Coalition, click here. For tips on submitting testimony, visit Maine Lakes’ webpage.
To stay updated on upcoming bills and learn how you can get involved, we encourage you to sign up for legislative alerts sent out by our partner Maine Lakes. When you testify and share your stories about the need to fund and support protective lake policies, you have an impact!
This article was included in 30 Mile’s February 2025 newsletter. To view the full newsletter, click here.