Sponsors (2)
The bill funds a time-limited feasibility study to potentially expand hydropower and protect downstream ecosystems at Glen Canyon Dam, offering possible lower power costs and ecological benefits but requiring nonreimbursable federal spending and risking delays or operational conflicts dependent on contractor agreement.
Utilities, energy companies and electricity consumers: increased or optimized hydropower generation at Glen Canyon Dam could lower electricity costs for CRSP customers and potentially reduce electricity prices for end consumers.
Rural communities and downstream ecosystems: a federally funded feasibility study and hydrological modeling would reduce the risk of invasive species entrainment and help protect native aquatic ecosystems.
State governments and project stakeholders: the bill sets clear deadlines (90 days to identify funding, 18 months for the study), which could speed decision-making and project implementation.
Taxpayers: the required study must be paid for with nonreimbursable federal appropriated funds, increasing federal spending without guarantee of cost recovery.
Utilities, energy companies and rural communities: construction authorization depends on CRSP power contractors' concurrence, which could delay or block implementation and prolong uncertainty for affected communities.
Rural communities and state governments: despite statutory language about not changing post-2026 operations, the study and any subsequent construction could practically alter river operations or local ecosystems, creating potential conflicts with stakeholders.
Based on analysis of 1 section of legislative text.
Directs an 18-month feasibility study (with hydrological modeling) of a selective withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam and allows construction if the alternative is feasible and contractors concur.
Introduced March 26, 2026 by Celeste Maloy · Last progress March 26, 2026
Requires the Secretary of the Interior, through the Bureau of Reclamation and in consultation with the Secretary of Energy and Colorado River Storage Project power contractors, to conduct an 18-month feasibility study (including hydrological modeling) of a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam. If the study finds a feasible alternative consistent with prior environmental records of decision and the CRSP power contractors concur, the Secretary may proceed with required compliance and construction; the work must use appropriated federal funds that are nonreimbursable and nonreturnable and the Secretary must identify funding sources within 90 days of enactment. The provision does not change post-2026 Colorado River reservoir operation guidelines for Lake Powell and Lake Mead.