DOWNING BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Troy Downing's bill, H.R. 7250, legislation to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The bill will help ensure critical water infrastructure projects continue moving forward across northeastern Montana.

The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves both tribal and non-tribal communities across the region.

H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation's authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028.

"Access to clean, reliable water is essential for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities in northeastern Montana," said Congressman Downing. "I'm proud the House passed my bill to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this critical project moving forward. I urge the Senate to pass this legislation so we can send it to the President's desk and continue investing in the infrastructure Montanans depend on."

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing's work to strengthen water infrastructure in northeastern Montana.

"Where reliable water flows, opportunity and prosperity follow. H.R. 7250 reauthorizes the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System, helping ensure families, farmers and businesses in northeastern Montana continue to have access to dependable water supplies," said Chairman Westerman. I commend Rep. Downing for his commitment to strengthening critical water infrastructure and supporting Montana's future."

Read the bill HERE.

Background:

The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was designed to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems.

H.R. 7250 extends authorization for the project for an additional two years to ensure continued construction and infrastructure development throughout the region.

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