H.R.3657 - Hydropower Relicensing Transparency Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3657, the Hydropower Relicensing Transparency Act, aims to enhance transparency in the hydropower relicensing process. It requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to submit an annual report to Congress on the status of ongoing hydropower relicensing applications. This report will include key information such as application dates, docket numbers, application status, anticipated issuance dates, upcoming proceedings, and required actions from various stakeholders.
Expected Effects
The bill's primary effect will be increased oversight of FERC's hydropower relicensing activities. This increased transparency could lead to more efficient relicensing processes and greater accountability. Ultimately, this could impact energy production and environmental considerations related to hydropower.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Transparency: Public access to information regarding hydropower relicensing.
- Improved Oversight: Congress will have better insight into FERC's activities.
- Potential for Efficiency: The reporting requirement may incentivize FERC to streamline processes.
- Enhanced Accountability: Stakeholders can better track the progress of relicensing applications.
- Informed Decision-Making: Congress can make more informed decisions regarding energy policy.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Administrative Burden: FERC may face additional workload in preparing the annual report.
- Potential for Delays: The reporting requirement could inadvertently slow down the relicensing process.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses solely on transparency and does not address underlying issues in hydropower relicensing.
- Potential for Political Influence: Increased congressional oversight could lead to political interference in FERC's decisions.
- Cost: There will be costs associated with creating the report.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional principle of congressional oversight of federal agencies. Article I, Section 1 vests legislative powers in Congress, which includes the power to oversee the executive branch and ensure agencies like FERC are acting in accordance with the law. The requirement for FERC to report to Congress is a valid exercise of this oversight power. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).