TO THE MEMBERS OF THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports H.R. 8, the “Water Resources Development Act of 2018 (WRDA)” and urges the House to promptly approve this legislation.
WRDA 2018 authorizes projects undertaken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works programs, including navigation, flood risk management, recreation, and infrastructure and
environmental stewardship. Enactment of this bill would provide critical economic and environmental benefits to the nation.
The legislation builds upon the streamlining provisions included in the WRDA 2014 and 2016 laws, to allow expedited approval for modifications to existing Corps projects.
Additionally, the bill continues efforts to expand the role of local partners in using non-federal resources to implement and coordinate Corps projects. Completing WRDA this year would continue the commitment Congress made in 2014 and 2016 to authorize new projects every two years.
We are disappointed that the bill before the House does not include Section 103 of the Committee reported bill, which clarified targets Congress enacted in WRDA 2014 for increased Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund funding. This provision would ensure that collected revenue from American businesses is being used for its intended purpose in a timely manner. We will continue to advocate for this provision as the legislative process moves forward.
The Chamber urges swift passage of H.R. 8, the Water Resources Development Act of 2018, so a House and Senate Conference Committee can reconcile the differences and enact the bill this year.
Sincerely,
Neil L. Bradley
