The U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure recently advanced legislation to provide the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with authority to carry out water resources development projects and studies.
The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 authorizes eight studies to modify existing Corps projects and 72 new feasibility studies. The bill also authorizes the construction of 16 pending proposed projects involving hurricane and storm damage reduction, flood damage reduction, shoreline protection, ecosystem restoration, and navigation.
The bill has passed on a biennial basis since 2014.
“I am pleased to continue the proud tradition of moving WRDA packages in a bipartisan manner,” committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR) said. “This legislation comes at a critical time as we look to make a full economic recovery from the pandemic by investing in our ports and harbors, which will help ensure America stays competitive in the global economy. Additionally, this legislation will continue our work to respond to the impacts of severe weather and climate change by building resilient communities, restoring our critical ecosystems and natural infrastructure, all while addressing the affordability of Corps’ projects in urban and rural communities that may be struggling financially.”
The bill moves to the full House for consideration.