Dam Assessment and Mitigation Support Act; DAMS Act
Summary
The Dam Assessment and Mitigation Support Act (DAMS Act) amends the National Dam Safety Program Act. It reauthorizes assistance to states for dam safety programs and modifies the requirements for prioritizing dam rehabilitation. Specifically, it extends the authorization of appropriations for high hazard potential dam rehabilitation through 2031.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to continued federal support for state dam safety programs. It ensures that states without risk-based priority systems use a national system for identifying high-hazard dams. The extension of appropriations provides long-term funding for dam rehabilitation.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for state dam safety programs.
- Improved prioritization of high-hazard potential dam rehabilitation.
- Long-term financial planning for dam safety projects.
- Potential reduction in the risk of dam failures.
- Enhanced public safety through infrastructure improvements.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of resources if the national priority system is not well-aligned with local needs.
- Increased federal oversight of state dam safety programs.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to bureaucratic processes.
- The act does not address the root causes of dam infrastructure issues.
- May not fully address all dam safety concerns.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect public safety through infrastructure improvements. Specifically, the act falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare of the United States, as outlined in the preamble. The reauthorization of assistance to states is consistent with the principles of federalism, allowing states to manage their own dam safety programs with federal support.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).