Assembly Bill 838 proposes to create a grant program for the dredging of the Deerskin River in the town of Washington, Vilas County, with an appropriation of $1,750,000 from the environmental fund. The Department of Natural Resources is tasked with awarding this grant, which the town can use for costs directly related to the dredging project, including permits, testing, dredging, and transportation of sediment. The bill stipulates that if the town does not complete the dredging by December 31, 2028, it must return the full grant amount to the state. Additionally, if the project is completed but costs are less than the awarded amount, the town must return the unspent funds.

The bill includes new statutory provisions, specifically creating sections 20.370 (4) (kt) and 30.2024, which outline the grant's funding and conditions. These sections establish the framework for the grant's administration and the financial responsibilities of the town of Washington regarding the completion of the dredging project.