S.Amdt. 6447

This amendment, proposed by Mr. Rounds and Ms. Cortez Masto, aims to add several sections to bill S. 4784. Its primary purpose is to authorize water-related feasibility studies, update forecasting programs, and improve reporting and grant processes.

Water Project Feasibility Studies The amendment adds requirements for the Secretary of the Interior to conduct feasibility studies for the following:

• Dakota Mainstem Water Supply Project: To supply water to South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota.
• Western South Dakota Water Supply Project: To supply water from the Missouri River to the Western Dakota Regional Water System.
• Glen Canyon Dam: To analyze ways to address downstream invasive species.

Program Updates and Reauthorizations The amendment makes changes to existing laws and programs:

• Snow Water Supply Forecasting Program: Updates the program to emphasize new technologies like machine learning and imaging spectroscopy, and authorizes $3,000,000 per year from 2027 through 2031.
• Large-Scale Water Recycling and Reuse Program: Extends the program to 10 years and allows for feasibility studies.
• Cooperative Watershed Management Program: Includes Indian tribes in definitions, increases grant amounts to $150,000, and authorizes $40,000,000 per year from 2027 through 2031.

Accountability and Reporting The amendment adds a new requirement for an Annual Licensing Status Report under the Federal Power Act. This report must be submitted to Congress annually to track the progress of new, subsequent, and original licenses.