ME LD1848

Increases inspection frequency for high and significant hazard potential dams from every 6 years to every 5 years, and requires comprehensive review of high hazard dams at least once every 12 years at the owner's expense

Requires dam owners to prepare emergency action plans within 6 months of classification as high or significant hazard potential, update plans every 2 years, and submit copies to local government offices

Mandates the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management to develop a comprehensive database management system, hire state dam inspectors (licensed professional engineers), and submit annual reports to the Legislature starting January 1, 2028

Requires coordination between Maine Emergency Management Agency and Department of Environmental Protection on nonhydropower dam construction permits, with MEMA providing safety assessments and recommendations

Authorizes monetary penalties for dam owners who fail to implement remedial measures ordered by the commissioner and requires owners to submit all engineering studies and reports to the department