Representative Steve Daines Looks to Change and Improve Rural Water Projects in Montana
Representative Steve Daines introduced an amendment Wednesday to fund rural Montana water projects. Daines’ amendment increases funding for the Rocky Boy’s Chippewa Cree Tribe and North Central Mountain Rural Water System and the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes and Dry Prairie Rural Water System.
"In Montana, we depend on a steady supply to irrigate our crops, water our livestock and provide energy through hydropower," Daines said. "The Struggle for water continues to create health challenges for Indian country and nearby communities, in addition to making economic development more difficult."
Daines also noted that reduced funding of the Fort Peck project has resulted in delayed construction and doubled costs.
"Every year we wait and delay funding of these essential projects, the more expensive construction, operation, and maintenance become," Daines said. "Passing this amendment is responsible stewardship of tax dollars and important to rural communities."
The amendment was passed by the House without opposition and will be included in the final Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.
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