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130th MAINE LEGISLATURE |
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LD 2018 |
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LR 2654(01) |
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An Act To
Implement Recommendations Regarding the Incorporation of Equity
Considerations in Regulatory Decision Making |
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Preliminary Fiscal
Impact Statement for Original Bill |
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Sponsor: Rep. Tucker of Brunswick |
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Committee: Environment and Natural Resources |
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Fiscal Note Required: Yes |
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Preliminary
Fiscal Impact Statement |
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FY 2021-22 |
FY 2022-23 |
Projections FY 2023-24 |
Projections FY 2024-25 |
Net Cost
(Savings) |
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General Fund |
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$0 |
$442,988 |
$585,644 |
$605,658 |
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Appropriations/Allocations |
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General Fund |
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$0 |
$442,988 |
$585,644 |
$605,658 |
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Fiscal Detail
and Notes |
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This bill changes
provisions applicable to intervenors in Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
proceedings to broaden eligibility for intervenor funding and to require
certain utilities to compensate intervenors. The compensation provided by a
utility may be recovered in rates subject to the ratemaking process approval
by the PUC. |
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The bill also
establishes definitions for "environmental justice,"
"frontline communities" and associated terminology. Additionally,
the bill requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to adopt
procedures to ensure fair and equitable access to the DEP decision-making
process. DEP has indicated that it will require ongoing appropriations of
$292,988 beginning in fiscal year 2022-23 for one Public Service Coordinator
position, two Law Clerk positions, one GIS Coordinator position and
associated costs. DEP will also require ongoing appropriations of $150,000
beginning in fiscal year 2022-23 for expenses related to expanded community
engagement activities regarding the DEP decision-making process. |
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