State Legislative Update Thank you to everyone who wrote to our state legislators urging them to vote in support of LD 2141, a bill that will appropriate $2,000,000 to the Invasive Aquatic Plant and Nuisance Species Fund to address the most serious invasive aquatic plant infestations across the state.

LD 2141 and LD 1342 (which would also increase State funding to aid in protecting and reducing the spread of invasive aquatic plants), have received strong bipartisan support. You can follow the status of these bills at https://legislature.maine.gov/

LD 2101, an act to strengthen Shoreland Zoning Enforcement, has passed in the House and the Senate and awaits the Governor's signature. This bill sends a message that the towns and State are serious about protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams. Zoning laws often fall on the towns to enforce, which often takes the form of a fine. When residents appeal fines, legal fees can add up and strain already tight town budgets. The bill authorizes, but does not require, the Maine Land Use Planning Commission and municipalities to take certain actions related to permits and fines when a violation occurs on land in a shoreland zone within the jurisdiction of the commission or the municipality.

LD 2284, an act to implement the recommendations of the IF&W's report on Wake Boats. This LD was enacted by both the House and the Senate. The bill contains several recommendations, including a person may not operate a motorboat engaged in a wake surfing activity in less than 15 feet of water or within 300 feet of shoreline.