Water Resources Development Act of 2026

Hozzl · 2026-09-18T05:23:20Z

Explore the details of House Bill 9497 Water Resources Development Act of 2026 currently in Congress. Get insights into its purpose, current status, sponsors, and potential impact on Water Resources Development. Stay informed on legislative developments.

9/18/2026, 5:23 AM

Summary of Bill HR 9497

The Water Resources Development Act of 2026, designated as H.R. 9497 in the 119th Congress and introduced on June 29, 2026, aims to address various aspects related to water resource management and development. The bill includes provisions concerning infrastructure improvement, water conservation measures, environmental protection, and possibly funding allocations for specific projects. Specific directives and actions proposed within the bill may relate to enhancing water infrastructure resilience, promoting sustainable water use practices, and ensuring the preservation of water-related ecosystems. More detailed information can be found in the official PDF version of the bill accessible at the provided link.

Congressional Summary of HR 9497

Water Resources Development Act of 2026

This bill authorizes and modifies certain water resource infrastructure projects and programs of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and makes related requirements. For example, the bill authorizes and modifies various water resources feasibility studies and projects of the Corps of Engineers, such as studies or projects to

maintain ports and harbors,
make certain waterways more navigable,
reduce flood and storm damage,
restore aquatic ecosystems and protect fish and wildlife,
protect shorelines,
address harmful algal blooms,
rehabilitate dams,
manage recreational sites and facilities,
support water supply and storage projects, and
support other water resources infrastructure.

The bill also directs the Corps of Engineers to establish an Office on Alternative Delivery Methods in order to accelerate project delivery of infrastructure.

In addition, the bill directs the Corps of Engineers to issue a rule that establishes categorical permissions for certain harbor or river improvements that will cause only minimal adverse environmental effects.

Read the Full Bill

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Current Status of Bill HR 9497

Bill HR 9497 is currently in the status of Passed in House since September 16, 2026. Bill HR 9497 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on June 29, 2026. Bill HR 9497's most recent activity was Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. as of September 16, 2026

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 9497

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

Democrat Cosponsors

Republican Cosponsors

Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 9497

Primary Policy Focus

Water Resources Development

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 9497

Water Resources Development Act of 2026

To provide for improvements to the rivers and harbors of the United States, to provide for the conservation and development of water and related resources, and for other purposes.