130th MAINE LEGISLATURE
		LD 2018		LR 2654(03)
	An Act To Implement Recommendations Regarding the Incorporation of Equity Considerations in Regulatory Decision Making
	Fiscal Note for Bill as Amended by Committee Amendment " "
	Committee: Environment and Natural Resources
	Fiscal Note Required: Yes
Fiscal Note
			FY 2021-22	FY 2022-23	Projections  FY 2023-24	Projections  FY 2024-25
Net Cost (Savings)
	General Fund		$0	$442,988	$585,644	$605,658
Appropriations/Allocations
	General Fund		$0	$442,988	$585,644	$605,658
Fiscal Detail and Notes
	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 bill also allows for similar funding to be made available through the PUC for advocates in a legislative proceeding. The compensation provided by a utility may be recovered in rates subject to the ratemaking process approval by the PUC.
	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 incorporating these requirements will necessitate 4 additional positions and resources. The bill includes 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. The bill also includes 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.