S.1570 - Help Hoover Dam Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1570, the "Help Hoover Dam Act," aims to amend the Boulder Canyon Project Act. It authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to expend funds from the Colorado River Dam fund for activities related to the Hoover Dam. These activities include operations, maintenance, investigation, cleanup, and capital improvements.
Expected Effects
The bill would allow the Secretary of Interior to use funds recovered on a non-reimbursable basis for various activities at the Hoover Dam. This could lead to improved infrastructure and maintenance at the dam. It also mandates consultation with Boulder Canyon Project contractors.
Potential Benefits
- Improved maintenance and operations of the Hoover Dam.
- Potential for infrastructure upgrades and capital improvements.
- Enhanced environmental cleanup actions within the Boulder Canyon Project area.
- Increased collaboration with Boulder Canyon Project contractors.
- Better resource allocation for the Hoover Dam's long-term sustainability.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for funds to be mismanaged or used inefficiently by the Secretary of the Interior.
- Possible conflicts of interest arising from consultation with Boulder Canyon Project contractors.
- Lack of specific details on how the funds will be prioritized and allocated.
- Limited oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability in fund expenditure.
- Potential for increased costs passed on to consumers of Hoover Dam power.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) by aiming to maintain and improve a critical infrastructure project. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The bill delegates authority to the Secretary of the Interior, which is a common practice, but Congress retains oversight through its legislative powers.
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).