This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994 to enhance dam management and safety through updated definitions and requirements. Key insertions include definitions for "additional spillway capacity," "emergency action plan," and "inflow design flood," which clarify the responsibilities of dam owners. The bill mandates that owners of federally licensed dams provide a comprehensive inventory of information to the state, ensuring access to critical data for regulatory purposes. It also introduces new requirements for plans related to dam construction, repair, and removal, which must be prepared by licensed professional engineers, and outlines a permit application process with tiered fees based on dam height.
Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding dam permit fees and registration processes, establishing a staggered registration system and introducing specific fee structures based on dam height. It emphasizes public safety and environmental protection by requiring comprehensive evaluations and compliance with operational plans. The bill also enhances safety standards for significant and high hazard potential dams, mandating that they meet stricter flood capacity requirements and maintain detailed operational records. Furthermore, it establishes a dam safety emergency fund for remedial actions and a grant program to assist dam owners with safety-related projects, ensuring accountability and proactive management of dam safety risks.