An Act relative to promoting the beneficial use of dredged materials for coastal resilience, nourishment and restoration

This bill establishes a dedicated "Dredge Material Fund" to finance coastal restoration projects using dredged materials removed during authorized dredging operations. The fund will be financed by dredging permit fees, municipal contributions, state/federal grants, and other designated revenues, and must be used exclusively for beach nourishment, marshland enhancement, and intercoastal island restoration to improve coastal resilience and habitat. Municipalities and private entities like beach associations can join the program by submitting project plans and contributing costs, while the Department of Environmental Protection must identify sites, facilitate material redistribution, and develop placement guidelines. Annual reports detailing project locations, outcomes, and expenditures must be submitted to legislative committees.