Sessions Votes for Water Resources Development Act, Includes Amendment to Expedite Permit Processes in North Texas

Statement

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules, today released the following statement after voting for a measure to provide for improvements to the rivers and harbors of the United States, to provide for the conservation and development of water and related resources:

"The House today acted on a very important piece of legislation to authorize resources for our nation's water infrastructure. These harbors, locks, dams and other infrastructure all play a pivotal role in our global economic competitiveness. More than $230 billion worth of cargo moves on our inland waterways annually, and without reliable infrastructure there would be devastating economic impacts. In addition, this bill is an example of Congress' return to regular business and the two-year cycle of authorizing activities related to the key missions of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In my home state of Texas we have a number of important water and infrastructure issues that are supported in this bill. Specifically, it includes an amendment that I offered with my North Texas colleagues to expedite the permit process so we can begin much needed construction of the Lower Bois d'Arc Creek Reservoir. Without this construction, thousands of North Texans would face high prices, lack of water supply, and extreme rationing. I proudly supported this bipartisan bill to restore certainty and put our nation on the right track, and I believe it will benefit all Americans."

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