Senate Committee Advances Water Infrastructure Bill
The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee last week approved the 2022 Water Resources and Development Act (WRDA). The bill, which is typically considered by Congress every two years and authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects, will now head to the full Senate for its consideration. In addition to authorizing specific projects, the bill also emphasizes that a primary mission of the USACE is to elevate coastal protection and ecosystem restoration. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), who serves as a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Senate Great Lakes Task Force, and is a member of the Committee, highlighted the following provisions that would benefit the Great Lakes:
Increasing the federal cost share for the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project: The federal cost share for constructing the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project will increase from 80% to 90% to prevent invasive carp and other invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. This increase will help expedite the completion of this critical project.
Addressing coastline erosion and flooding: The bill allows the Army Corps of Engineers to provide support to Great Lakes states to take proactive steps to prevent future erosion that will cause flooding in coastal communities.
Supporting sewer overflow, storm water, and drinking water projects: The bill increases authorization forthe Environmental Infrastructure Assistance Program from $35 million to $85 million. This will enable the Army Corps of Engineers to help support sewer overflow, stormwater, and drinking water projects in the Great Lakes region.
Expediting the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study to develop a coordinated strategy to manage and protect the Great Lakes. Any future studies identified in the study would be automatically authorized.
A House companion bill has yet to be released, but is expected in the near future.
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Wednesday, May 11th, 2022 | 2:00 PM | 1324 Longworth HOB | Host: Committee on Natural Resources | Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands
Thursday, May 12th, 2022 | 2:30 PM | 2362-B Rayburn HOB | Host: Committee on Appropriations | Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies
