H.R.1001 - An Act To provide for a memorandum of understanding to address the impacts of a certain record of decision on the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1001 directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Energy to create a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the impact of the 'Supplement to the 2016 Glen Canyon Dam Long-Term Experimental and Management Plan Record of Decision' on the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund. The MOU will explore and address the effects of the record of decision on the Fund's obligations, hydropower production at Glen Canyon Dam, and threatened or endangered species.
The plan will use existing hydropower contracts to inform its strategies. The Act includes savings clauses to ensure it does not preempt rights or obligations under the Administrative Procedure Act.
The bill was passed by the House of Representatives and received in the Senate, where it was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
This Act will likely lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the financial and environmental impacts of the Glen Canyon Dam's operational decisions. It will also lead to a plan to mitigate any negative consequences.
This could involve adjustments to hydropower production, infrastructure maintenance, and species protection efforts. The MOU aims to balance energy production with environmental stewardship within the Colorado River Basin.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Resource Management: The MOU could lead to better management of the Upper Colorado River Basin Fund by addressing the financial impacts of operational decisions.
- Enhanced Environmental Protection: The plan to identify impacts on threatened and endangered species could lead to improved conservation efforts.
- Grid Reliability: Addressing the impact on hydropower production at Glen Canyon Dam could help maintain grid reliability in the region.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Consultation with the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group ensures diverse perspectives are considered.
- Informed Decision-Making: The MOU will provide a framework for making informed decisions about the dam's operations, balancing multiple needs.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Delays: The process of creating and implementing the MOU could take time, delaying necessary actions.
- Limited Scope: The MOU focuses specifically on the impacts of one record of decision, potentially overlooking other relevant factors.
- Uncertain Outcomes: The MOU only requires the exploration and addressing of impacts, not necessarily their resolution.
- Administrative Burden: Creating and maintaining the MOU will require administrative resources from the Departments of Interior and Energy.
- Potential for Conflict: Differing priorities among stakeholders could lead to disagreements during the MOU's development and implementation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to manage resources and protect endangered species, contributing to the overall well-being of the nation. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Furthermore, the Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. The savings clause regarding the Administrative Procedure Act reinforces adherence to due process and established legal procedures.
However, the extent of its alignment depends on the specific actions taken under the MOU and whether those actions remain within the bounds of Congressional authority and respect for states' rights.
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).