Federal Water Projects Consultation Improvement Act of 2026

This bill sets rules for how federal agencies must involve local water contractors when they review the operation of federal water projects under the Endangered Species Act. It applies to projects in western Reclamation States that supply water for cities or farms. Public agencies and water users associations with Bureau of Reclamation contracts could request to take part in preparing biological assessments and to receive and comment on draft biological opinions. If an agency considers an action that would not deliver full contracted water, it would have to explain its legal authority, the science behind each part of the action, and why options with fewer water supply and economic impacts are not enough to protect listed species.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Cliff Bentz Republican sponsor
• 1 cosponsors