Louie Gohmert: “H.R. 1462 stems from endangered species conflicts along the Platte River. As a result of lawsuits and the real threat of…”

“H.R. 1462 stems from endangered species conflicts along the Platte River. As a result of lawsuits and the real threat of water and power infrastructure being shut down over endangered species conflicts, the Federal Government, three States, water and power users, and environmental organizations came together on the Platte River Recovery Program, and this legislation implements part of that program. The result is that existing water and power infrastructure is protected while a collaborative and far-reaching program to help save four different species begins. Since this program is contingent upon Federal appropriations and a State can opt out, the governance committee charged with implementing the program has the enormous responsibility of keeping all stakeholders together, conversing with affected parties, communities and landowners on land and water issues and finding real results. Congress will continue to have oversight on this program to see if it is being run effectively and efficiently. This legislation, if implemented properly, can be a win-win for both the people and species of the Platte River basin.”