§ 113A-44. Restrictions on project works on natural or scenic river.
§ 113A‑44. Restrictions on project works on natural or scenic river.
The State Utilities Commission may not permit the construction of anydam, water conduit, reservoir, powerhouse transmission line, or any otherproject works on or directly affecting any river that is designated as acomponent or potential component of the State Natural and Scenic Rivers System.No department or agency of the State may assist by loan, grant, license,permit, or otherwise in the construction of any water resources project thatwould have a direct and adverse effect on any river that is designated as acomponent or potential component of the State Natural and Scenic Rivers System.This section shall not, however, preclude licensing of or assistance to adevelopment below or above a designated or potential component. No departmentor agency of the State may recommend authorization of any water resourcesproject that would have a direct and adverse effect on any river that isdesignated as a component or potential component of the State Natural andScenic Rivers System, or request appropriations to begin construction of anysuch project, regardless of when authorized, without advising the Secretary inwriting of its intention to do so at least 60 days in advance. Such departmentor agency making such recommendation or request shall submit a written impactstatement to the General Assembly to accompany the recommendation or requestspecifically describing how construction of the project would be in conflictwith the purposes of this act and how it would affect the component orpotential component. (1985, c. 129, s. 2.)