The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to enhance dam management and safety through several key updates. It introduces new definitions, such as "additional spillway capacity" and "emergency action plan," while clarifying existing terms related to dam safety. The legislation requires dam owners to provide detailed information to the state for federally licensed dams and mandates that licensed professional engineers prepare plans for significant dam projects, with exemptions for minor projects. Outdated provisions regarding abandonment are removed, and the permitting process is streamlined, including a new fee structure based on dam size and a waiver for certain nonprofit organizations.

Additionally, the bill establishes a staggered registration process for dam owners, requiring them to submit asset management plans and comply with inspection schedules based on hazard classifications. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining emergency action plans, which must be reviewed annually and coordinated with local emergency operations. A dam safety emergency fund is created to address safety risks when owners are unable or unwilling to act, and a grant program is introduced to assist with dam repairs and planning, requiring a 10% matching contribution from owners. Overall, the bill aims to improve dam safety and ensure compliance with updated operational standards.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-4): 324.31502
House Introduced Bill: 324.31502
As Passed by the House: 324.31502