Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4359

Introduced
5/16/24  
Refer
5/16/24  

Caption

A bill to amend the National Dam Safety Program Act to reauthorize that Act, and for other purposes.

Impact

The passage of SB4359 would have significant implications for state laws related to dam safety, ensuring that federal support and funding are available for the ongoing evaluation and rehabilitation of critical structures. By extending funding deadlines, the bill reinforces the federal government's commitment to upgrading safety protocols and enhancing dam safety management within states. This move is expected to bolster local infrastructure resilience against environmental threats and improve public safety overall.

Summary

SB4359 is a legislative measure aimed at amending the National Dam Safety Program Act to ensure its reauthorization and continued funding. The bill seeks to extend the necessary timeline for rehabilitation of dams identified as having high hazard potential, pushing deadlines from 2026 to 2029. This adjustment is crucial to maintain the efficacy of the federal regulatory framework governing dam safety and emphasizes the importance of adequate infrastructure to protect communities from potential flooding hazards associated with aging dam structures.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB4359 have generally reflected a supportive sentiment toward improving dam safety measures. Advocates from both environmental and public safety sectors acknowledge the necessity of maintaining high safety standards for existing dams. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns regarding the adequacy of funding levels and the potential for delays in infrastructure projects that could arise from extending the deadlines. Overall, the bill is seen as positioning federal resources toward increasing awareness and addressing dam safety issues effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention have emerged regarding the prioritization of federal resources and the timelines set for dam rehabilitation. Critics argue that extending the deadlines could lead to negligence of urgent maintenance needs and that more immediate measures should be taken to address the safety of high hazard potential dams. This debate centers around balancing the need for immediate action against long-term planning, reflecting differing perspectives on infrastructure funding allocation and public safety responsibilities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB3111

National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act of 2023

US SB3606

National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2024

US SB3277

A bill to amend the Marine Debris Act to reauthorize the Marine Debris Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

US HB6931

NDSP Amendment Act National Dam Safety Program Amendment Act of 2024

US HB5104

National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act of 2023

US SB4974

A bill to amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System, and for other purposes.

US HB8610

Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act

US SB4915

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the low-income housing credit and to reauthorize and reform the Generalized System of Preferences, and for other purposes.

US HB6213

National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act

US HB9723

National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.