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To provide for operations of the Federal Columbia River Power System pursuant to a certain operation plan for a specified period of time, and for other purposes.
2/12/2025, 9:01 AM
Summary of Bill HR 626
The main goal of the bill is to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System in order to maximize the generation of hydroelectric power while also protecting the environment and wildlife in the region. The bill also addresses issues related to water management, fish and wildlife conservation, and recreation along the Columbia River.
Overall, Bill 119 hr 626 seeks to provide a comprehensive framework for the operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System, taking into account the various interests and stakeholders involved. The bill aims to balance the need for reliable and affordable energy with the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.
Congressional Summary of HR 626
Northwest Energy Security Act
This bill requires Federal Columbia River Power System (FCRPS) operations to be consistent with the reasonable and prudent alternative described in a 2020 environmental impact statement (EIS) decision. The system includes dams in the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest.
Specifically, the Bureau of Reclamation, the Bonneville Power Administration, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must operate the FCRPS consistent with the Columbia River System Operations Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision dated September 2020. The preferred alternative outlined in the EIS decision allows specified dams in the lower Snake River to remain in place. Thus, Reclamation, the Bonneville Power Administration, and the Army Corps must follow the EIS rather than the 2023 Resilient Columbia Basin Initiative that focuses on wild fish restoration in the Columbia Basin.
The EIS decision may be amended if each agency determines that (1) changes are necessary for public safety or electrical grid reliability, or (2) certain requirements in the decision are no longer necessary.
Further, the bill requires statutory authorization for any structural modification, action, study, or engineering plan that (1) restricts FCRPS hydroelectric dam generation; or (2) limits navigation on the Snake River in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.
