Nick Rahall: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2925, as amended, would assist in law enforcement efforts at the Bureau of Reclamation facilities in…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2925, as amended, would assist in law enforcement efforts at the Bureau of Reclamation facilities in 17 western States. Despite the agency's responsibility to manage more than 300 dams and reservoirs and 58 hydroelectric power plants, the Secretary of the Interior lacks the adequate authority to enforce Federal law at Bureau of Reclamation facilities. There are often violations of Federal law, including vandalism, theft, trespass, and threats to the security of the facilities. H.R. 2925, as amended, would authorize the Secretary to contract with Federal, State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to enforce Federal and State laws on Reclamation lands. The bill would authorize the Secretary to contract with an adjacent landowner, such as the Forest Service or the local police department, to enforce laws on Reclamation lands. The bill would also authorize the Secretary to pay the law enforcement agencies for their services. The administration supports this bill. Given our support for the safety of our water supply, this legislation, as amended, deserves our support. I urge its adoption.”