The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to enhance dam management and safety through updated definitions and procedures. It introduces new terms such as "additional spillway capacity," "inflow design flood," and "probable maximum flood," which clarify dam classifications based on hazard potential. The bill outlines the responsibilities of dam owners, requiring comprehensive evaluations and plans from licensed professional engineers for significant projects. It also modifies existing language to improve clarity, replacing "abandonment" with specific terms related to dam removal and maintenance, and emphasizes environmental considerations in dam management.

Additionally, the bill establishes a staggered registration process for dam owners, requiring detailed asset management plans and allowing for the revocation of registrations under certain conditions. It mandates that permit applications include a first-filling or refilling plan and a written agreement for permit transfers, along with a tiered fee structure based on dam height. The bill also introduces requirements for safety and security plans, emergency action plans, and the maintenance of operational records. To support dam safety, it creates a dam safety emergency fund and a grant program for repairs, emphasizing the need for coordination among dam owners and regular emergency preparedness exercises.