Columbia River Clean-Up Act of 2025
Summary
The Columbia River Clean-Up Act of 2025 reauthorizes the Columbia River Basin Restoration program by amending the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Specifically, it extends the program's authorization from 2020-2021 to 2026-2030. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Merkley, Mr. Wyden, and Mrs. Murray and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Expected Effects
The Act will allow the Columbia River Basin Restoration program to continue receiving funding and operating through 2030. This will likely lead to continued efforts to improve water quality and ecosystem health in the Columbia River Basin. Without this reauthorization, the program would cease to exist.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for projects aimed at cleaning up and restoring the Columbia River Basin.
- Improved water quality for communities and ecosystems that rely on the river.
- Potential for increased recreational opportunities and tourism due to a healthier river.
- Support for local economies that depend on fishing and other river-related activities.
- Preservation of the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Columbia River Basin.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending, although the specific amount is not detailed in the bill.
- Possible delays or bureaucratic hurdles in implementing restoration projects.
- The bill itself does not guarantee specific environmental outcomes, only continued authorization.
- Reliance on the effectiveness of the existing program, which may have limitations.
- Potential for unintended consequences from restoration efforts, although unlikely.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the well-being of the environment and the communities that depend on the Columbia River Basin. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to interstate waters and environmental protection. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).