Jim Costa: “The legislative process is a two way street. It's about listening and incorporating the concerns of our colleagues to…”

“The legislative process is a two way street. It's about listening and incorporating the concerns of our colleagues to improve a bill. This amendment does just that. Environmental review is important, but it needs to be an appropriate level of review for the project involved. On these types of projects, there isn't much chance of damage, so there shouldn't be much cost involved for review. Reclamation recognizes this and has made great strides in easing the way for small hydro development on the agency's projects. However, potential legal conflicts have prevented them from fully implementing this process. This amendment would bridge the legal gap and clarify questions that have kept the Bureau from moving forward. Specifically, the amendment would codify the steps Reclamation is already taking to ease the way for responsible small conduit hydropower development while also resolving potential litigation concerns. This is a commonsense amendment that has been endorsed by American Rivers, Trout Unlimited, the Family Farm Alliance, the National Water Resources Association, and the National Hydropower Association. I urge you to support this amendment and support the underlying bill. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Tipton). The amendment was agreed to. Amendment No. 1 Offered by Mrs. Napolitano”