Dredging Coordination Improvement Act
Summary
The Dredging Coordination Improvement Act aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance dredging activities carried out by the Secretary of the Army. It mandates consultation with stakeholders, including non-Federal sponsors and other relevant entities, when determining the scope of dredging contracts. The bill also prioritizes dredging in waters used for commercial and navigation activities, emergencies, environmental windows, and activities of important national interest.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to better-coordinated dredging projects that are more responsive to the needs of various stakeholders. It could also result in more efficient allocation of resources for dredging, focusing on areas of highest priority. The act also mandates better communication regarding changes to dredging project timelines.
Potential Benefits
- Improved coordination and communication between the Army Corps of Engineers and local stakeholders.
- Prioritization of dredging projects that support commercial navigation and national interests.
- More efficient use of resources for maintenance dredging.
- Better responsiveness to emergency dredging needs.
- Increased transparency through the availability of capability numbers to non-Federal sponsors.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays in dredging projects due to the consultation requirement.
- Possible conflicts between stakeholders with competing interests.
- The definition of "important national interest" is left to the Secretary, potentially leading to inconsistent application.
- Increased administrative burden on the Secretary of the Army.
- May disadvantage recreational waterways if commercial needs are prioritized.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the several states. Maintenance dredging directly impacts navigable waterways, which are essential for interstate and international commerce. 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).