Bill orders study of expanding Lewis & Clark Regional Water System in three states

What does this do?

The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior, through the Bureau of Reclamation, to study whether expanding the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System is technically and financially workable under federal reclamation rules. The study would also look at how far the system's reach and capacity could grow. The Secretary would then issue a public report to Congress saying whether the expansion is feasible, whether Congress should authorize construction, and how much local entities should pay.

Who does it affect?

The most direct effects would fall on the towns, rural water users, and businesses served by the current system, and on the nonprofit water utility itself. Taxpayers nationwide would help fund the study.

Why does it matter?

The bill builds nothing; any construction would need a separate act of Congress and separate funding. The study's findings would inform whether Congress considers authorizing an expansion.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal share capped at half of study cost
• Federal spending capped at $10 million
• Local share at least 25% of construction