U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-3) issued the following statement after the president signed into law the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) which will update our nation’s water infrastructure.  The law also includes provisions passed by Luetkemeyer and U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (MO-6) that ensures the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has a clear, results-based strategy for fish and wildlife mitigation on the Missouri River. 

“I am proud the House and Senate were able to come together and support this common-sense and job supporting legislation. This law is critical to Missouri’s river communities where waterways and ports help support nearly 25,000 jobs and contributes $4 billion to the state’s economy. The law means jobs, trade, competitiveness, and economic development for Missouri and the entire nation,” Luetkemeyer said. “I want to thank Congressman Graves for working with me on behalf of the thousands of Missourians who rely on the river by strengthening our country’s infrastructure for years to come.”

The law streamlines the project delivery process, promotes fiscal responsibility, and strengthens water transportation networks to promote competitiveness, prosperity, and economic growth.  The law contains no earmarks and makes major reforms to increase transparency, accountability, and congressional oversight in reviewing and prioritizing future water resources development activities. The law also authorizes the key missions of the Corps including flood prevention and navigation projects.