HR-2309 : Still Just a Bill

National Dam and Hydropower Safety Improvements Act of 2021

This bill requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to take certain actions related to dam safety.

Specifically, FERC may issue a license for a dam and other project works only if the project meets the relevant safety requirements and the licensee can operate and manage the project works in a manner that ensures dam and public safety. A licensee with an already-issued license must also meet these safety requirements.

FERC must also establish procedures to assess the financial viability of an applicant for such a license.

Finally, the bill requires FERC's Office of Energy Projects to (1) notify a state in certain situations, such as when FERC issues a finding that requires a dam operator in that state to make repairs; and (2) hold a conference with states to discuss dam safety issues.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2021-04-02CommitteeReferred to the Subcommittee on Energy.House committee actions
2021-04-01IntroReferralReferred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.House floor actions
2021-04-01IntroReferralIntroduced in HouseLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Water Resources Development
See Subjects
  • Administrative law and regulatory procedures
  • Alternative and renewable resources
  • Dams and canals
  • Emergency planning and evacuation
  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
  • Floods and storm protection
  • Government information and archives
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Hydrology and hydrography
  • Intergovernmental relations
  • Licensing and registrations
  • Water resources funding
  • Water use and supply

Related Bills

See Related Bills