Ralph Hall: “Mr. Speaker, FERC of course has the authority to extend the initial deadline but for no longer than 2 years. If…”

“Mr. Speaker, FERC of course has the authority to extend the initial deadline but for no longer than 2 years. If additional time is needed, Congress can enact legislation to extend that deadline. I think I should also point out that it is not without warranted reason that these hydroelectric projects are in need of license extensions. In the case of the project in New York, it is very difficult to find a sponsor to secure financing until it has a power sales contract in hand. Generally a licensee cannot secure a contract until it has been granted a license. These circumstances make it critical for a construction license to be granted. There is no one opposed to it. It is an easy bill with no objection from FERC. I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in voting ``yes'' on H.R. 848.”