H.R. 7287: Lewis and Clark Regional Water System Expansion Feasibility Study Act

This bill, titled the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System Expansion Feasibility Study Act, aims to require the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study evaluating the feasibility of a project designed to expand the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System. This system currently provides municipal, rural, and industrial water for areas in the states of Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota.

Study Conduct

The Secretary of the Interior will work with a non-federal project entity, which includes the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System, Inc., to perform the feasibility study. This study aims to determine whether it is practical and beneficial to undertake the proposed expansion project.

Feasibility Report

Once the study is completed, the Secretary is required to produce a feasibility report that includes:

• A recommendation on whether the project should be authorized for construction.
• A determination of the appropriate non-federal share of construction costs, which must be at least 25% of the total costs and should consider the financial capacity of the area to bear these costs.

Consultation Requirements

During the feasibility study, the Secretary is expected to consult with various governmental levels including federal, state, tribal, regional, and local authorities to ensure broad input and collaboration on the project's viability.

Cost-Sharing Agreement

The Secretary must enter into a cost-sharing agreement with the non-federal project entity for conducting the study, ensuring that the costs comply with established reclamation feasibility standards.

Federal Funding

The federal contribution toward the total costs of the feasibility study is capped at 50%. To facilitate this study, the bill authorizes the appropriation of up to $10 million for the Secretary’s use in carrying out the objectives of this act.

Expiration of Authority

The authority granted by this bill to undertake the study will expire ten years after the bill is enacted.

Relevant Companies

• XYL - Xylem Inc. is a water technology company that may be involved in providing systems or technologies for water solutions.
• VEON - VEON Ltd. may be indirectly impacted as a telecommunications provider since improved water systems could enhance operational capabilities in certain rural areas.