Bill orders feasibility studies for three Missouri River water projects
In markupH.R. 9785Latest action
Sponsor: Dusty Johnson · Representative · SD
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: South Dakota Water Feasibility Studies Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
The bill funds studies—not construction—for three water supply projects across four states, capped at $10 million each.
55-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill directs the Interior Department to study three Missouri River basin water supply projects: a western South Dakota system, an expansion of the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System, and a new "Dakota Mainstem" system. It funds only feasibility studies, not actual construction, and each study authorization expires after 10 years if unused.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects rural and small-town residents, farmers, and industries in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota who rely on Missouri River water supplies. It also affects the Department of the Interior and local water utility nonprofits involved in funding and conducting the studies.
Why does it matter?
Because the bill only authorizes studies, no new water infrastructure would be built immediately, and any future construction would depend on Interior's recommendations and local communities covering at least 25% of costs.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Federal share up to 50% per study
- Capped at $10 million each
- Construction requires 25%+ local share
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Introduced in House” text of Jul 20, 2026.
After that text, a committee agreed on Sep 15, 2026 to send the bill to the full chamber with changes. This plain-language version may not reflect them.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJul 20, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Sep 15, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute by Unanimous Consent.