Whereas, Revolutionary War vessels of potential historical significance are submerged in the Penobscot River near the cities of Brewer and Bangor; and

Whereas, salvage of those vessels will contribute to the historical record of the State and an understanding of important events in the formation of our nation; and

Whereas, immediate authorization for salvage of the vessels is necessary so that dredging of the Penobscot River in the area where the vessels are submerged may take place in order to ensure the unimpeded passage of vessels on the river; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Salvage rights granted to Brewer Historical Society and Bangor Historical Society. Resolved: That the State grants to the Brewer Historical Society and the Bangor Historical Society equal rights in the salvage of Revolutionary War vessels submerged in the Penobscot River.

Emergency clause. In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this resolve takes effect when approved.

SUMMARY

This resolve grants equal rights to the Brewer Historical Society and the Bangor Historical Society to salvage Revolutionary War vessels submerged in the Penobscot River.