A bill to clarify jurisdiction with respect to certain Bureau of Reclamation pumped storage development, and for other purposes.

12/2/2024, 9:05 AM

Summary of Bill S 739

Bill 118 s 739, also known as the "Bureau of Reclamation Pumped Storage Development Clarification Act," aims to clarify the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation in regards to certain pumped storage development projects.

The bill specifically addresses the authority of the Bureau of Reclamation to oversee and regulate pumped storage development projects on federal lands. Pumped storage is a method of storing energy by pumping water uphill to a reservoir when electricity is abundant and cheap, and then releasing the water downhill through turbines to generate electricity when demand is high.

The bill seeks to ensure that the Bureau of Reclamation has the necessary jurisdiction and authority to facilitate the development of pumped storage projects on federal lands, while also ensuring that these projects comply with all relevant environmental regulations and considerations. In addition to clarifying jurisdiction, the bill also includes provisions for the Bureau of Reclamation to work with other federal agencies, state and local governments, and private entities to promote the development of pumped storage projects in a collaborative and efficient manner. Overall, the goal of Bill 118 s 739 is to streamline the regulatory process for pumped storage development projects, while also ensuring that these projects are carried out in a responsible and environmentally sustainable manner.

Congressional Summary of S 739

This bill transfers National Forest System land near the Salt River in Arizona to the Bureau of Reclamation to expand the area used for generating electric power for the Salt River Federal Reclamation Project. Any facilities on the covered land constructed by the Salt River Project are owned by Reclamation, but the Salt River Project is responsible for the facilities' operation and maintenance.

Current Status of Bill S 739

Bill S 739 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 9, 2023. Bill S 739 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on March 9, 2023.  Bill S 739's most recent activity was Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 579. as of November 21, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 739

Total Number of Sponsors
5
Democrat Sponsors
5
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 739

Primary Policy Focus

Water Resources Development

Potential Impact Areas

ArizonaElectric power generation and transmissionGovernment buildings, facilities, and propertyLand transfers

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 739

A bill to clarify jurisdiction with respect to certain Bureau of Reclamation pumped storage development, and for other purposes.A bill to clarify jurisdiction with respect to certain Bureau of Reclamation pumped storage development, and for other purposes.
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