Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured significant funding and legislative language to support energy, water, and economic development priorities for the State of Maine in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that passed the Senate today. The bill, which was approved by the House of Representatives last week, now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
“This legislation delivers meaningful support for communities across Maine by investing in the continued development of our forest products economy, maintaining vital waterways, and helping families reduce energy costs,” said Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee. “As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to work to better ensure that Maine’s priorities are clearly reflected in our legislation and that federal resources are used responsibly.”
Funding and legislative language advanced by Senator Collins includes:
Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC): The bill provides $42 million for the Northern Border Regional Commission, a $1 million increase above the FY25 enacted level. This funding includes $4 million to address the decline in forest-based economies and $1.5 million for the State Capacity Building Grant Program. In 2024 alone, Maine was awarded more than $14 million through NBRC programs to support economic development in rural communities.
Kennebec River Maintenance Dredging Plan: The legislation includes language directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Navy to provide appropriate resources for annual maintenance dredging of the Kennebec River to ensure the channel remains navigable for the safe passage of newly constructed Navy guided missile destroyers. This directive reinforces the 2019 memorandum of agreement between the Navy and the Army establishing responsibility for regular maintenance dredging and supports continued operations at Bath Iron Works.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): The bill provides $329 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program, an increase of $3 million above the FY25 enacted level. It also includes level funding of $30 million for the Weatherization Readiness Fund. These investments will help low-income households improve energy efficiency and lower heating costs.
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