Resolve, To Study Maine'S Absolute Dominion And Beneficial Use Laws Relating To Water Rights

This bill establishes a 17-member commission to study Maine's water rights laws, specifically focusing on "absolute dominion" and "beneficial use" doctrines governing groundwater. The commission will review existing laws, court cases (like *Maddocks v. Giles*), and how other states manage groundwater rights, then develop recommendations for potential policy changes. The study is limited to analysis and recommendations - no new laws will be enacted by this bill - and the commission must submit its report to the Environment Committee by December 3, 2025. This affects how Maine may later approach water rights management, but does not directly change current regulations.