AB 882: Relating to: town authority over the water elevation of an artificial water body created by a dam and recourse due to damage caused by an obstructed waterway.
AB 882 status: To Governor — Failed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82 (updated May 13, 2026).
What this bill does
Overall score
Bill summary
OfficialThis bill is about two things: 1. **Water Levels:** It would give local towns more control over the water levels in man-made ponds or lakes created by dams. 2. **Property Damage:** It creates a clearer legal process for people to seek help or payment if their property is damaged because someone else blocked a waterway....
Key analysis
Impact analysis
Environment
Benefits
- potential for more responsive local management of artificial water levels
Risks
- risk of unscientific water level adjustments affecting local ecosystems
Economy
Benefits
- establishes clearer paths for property owners to seek damages
Risks
- potential for increased litigation costs and local administrative burdens
Society
Benefits
- empowers local town governance on public-interest water issues
Risks
- could lead to increased interpersonal disputes between neighbors over water access
How trustworthy & consequential it is
Source
OpenStates
Confidence
lowlow
Analysis status
OpenStates summary
Local control over water elevation may lack the technical or environmental oversight required for regional water health
Analysis based on bill summary; full legal text not reviewed
Where it stands
Introduced
CompleteCommittee
CompleteFloor
CompleteGovernor
CurrentFailed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82
Enacted
UpcomingHow it affects your district
Set your location
Add your district to see how this bill may affect your community and who to contact.
Take action
Contact your representatives
Let them know how you feel about this bill.
Share your view
Join the discussion and see what others are saying.
Track this bill
Stay updated on progress and changes.