Substitute House Bill No. 5334, also known as Public Act No. 26-61, establishes new provisions regarding the preservation of riparian areas. Effective July 1, 2026, the bill mandates that the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection utilize state funds allocated to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. The purpose of these funds is to hire an employee who will conduct training for inland wetland commissions on topics related to the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act, with a specific focus on the preservation of riparian areas.

This legislation does not include any deletions from current law but introduces new legal language to enhance the training and support for inland wetland commissions. By ensuring that these commissions are well-informed about the preservation of riparian areas, the bill aims to promote better environmental stewardship and management of watercourses in the state.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-63g
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 192:
APP Joint Favorable: