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To require to Comptroller General to submit to Congress a report on the status of dams in the USDA watershed program.

2/5/2024, 11:45 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4959

Bill 118 hr 4959, also known as the "Dam Status Report Act," is a piece of legislation that aims to increase transparency and accountability regarding the status of dams in the USDA watershed program. The bill requires the Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress detailing the current condition and maintenance of dams within the program.

The USDA watershed program is a federal initiative that provides funding and support for the construction and maintenance of dams in order to manage water resources and prevent flooding. Dams play a crucial role in regulating water flow and protecting communities from natural disasters, making it essential to ensure they are properly maintained and functioning effectively.

The report mandated by this bill will include information on the number of dams in the USDA watershed program, their current condition, any maintenance or repair needs, and an assessment of the overall effectiveness of the program in managing water resources. By requiring this report, Congress aims to better understand the state of dams within the program and identify any areas for improvement or increased investment. Overall, the "Dam Status Report Act" seeks to promote transparency and accountability in the management of dams within the USDA watershed program, ultimately working towards the goal of ensuring the safety and effectiveness of these critical infrastructure projects.

Congressional Summary of HR 4959

This bill directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on dams in watershed programs of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Specifically, GAO must report on dams that receive assistance under (1) the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act, (2) the Act of December 22, 1944, (3) the Pilot Watershed Program, and (4) the Resource Conservation and Development program. The report must include the status of the dams, including information related to

  • the location, ownership, and structural conditions of the dams;
  • their compliance with certain environmental requirements;
  • their hazard classification assessments; and
  • whether the dams have exceeded their life expectancies.

Current Status of Bill HR 4959

Bill HR 4959 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 27, 2023. Bill HR 4959 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on July 27, 2023.  Bill HR 4959's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology. as of August 28, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4959

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4959

Primary Policy Focus

Water Resources Development

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