Water Resources Development Act of 2024
Summary
Water Resources Development Act of 2024
This bill authorizes, deauthorizes, and modifies various water resources feasibility studies and projects of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, such as studies or projects to
• make certain waterways more navigable,
• reduce flood and storm damage,
• restore aquatic ecosystems,
• maintain ports and harbors,
• support water supply and storage projects,
• construct water and wastewater infrastructure,
• manage recreational sites and facilities,
• rehabilitate dams, and
• support other water resources infrastructure.
Lifecycle of the Bill
On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended
On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended
The House of Representatives passed H.R. 8812, the Water Resources Development Act of 2024, in a decisive 359-13 vote. This legislation is a major biennial bill that authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to carry out projects related to navigation, flood control, and environmental restoration across the country. Because the vote was held under a suspension of the rules, it required a two-thirds majority to pass, a threshold it easily cleared with support from nearly all Democrats and the vast majority of Republicans. The passage of this bill ensures that critical investments in the nation's ports, harbors, and inland waterways can move forward. These projects are essential for maintaining global supply chains and protecting coastal and riverine communities from extreme weather events. The bill also includes provisions to streamline project delivery and enhance local cooperation in water management. This vote demonstrates a continued bipartisan commitment to infrastructure, as the Water Resources Development Act has historically been passed every two years with cooperation from both parties. Following this successful House vote, the legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration. If approved by the Senate and signed by the President, the authorized projects will be eligible for future federal funding.
