H.R. 3080

After what seems like forever the Water Resources Reform and Development Act has passed out of conference and now awaits final Congressional approval. And while the bill is considered inadequate by some, it will give the country’s port infrastructure and inland waterway systems a firm and sustainable foundation to build and grow future economy, jobs and trade market competitiveness. The WRRDA of 2014 is being touted as “one of the most policy and reform focused measures of its kind in the last two decades”. Highlights of the bill include the de-authorization of $18 billion of old, inactive projects that were authorized before the 2007 WRDA, the establishment of a new, transparent process for future bills to review and prioritize water resources development activities with strong Congressional oversight, expanding opportunities for non-federal interests to contribute funds to expedite studies, evaluations, permits and projects, and enhancing safety. Numerous groups, ag and non-ag, are hopeful of a quick passage of the bill, as H.R. 3080 seems to have something for everyone.