Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015

Bill: 114-hr-2898
Sponsor: full_name: Rep. Valadao, David G. [R-CA-21]
Introduced: 2015-06-25
Policy area: Water Resources Development
Subjects: Administrative law and regulatory procedures

Agricultural conservation and pollution

Aquatic ecology

California

Congressional oversight

Dams and canals

Department of the Interior

Disaster relief and insurance

Endangered and threatened species

Environmental assessment, monitoring, research

Executive agency funding and structure

Federal-Indian relations

Fishes

General public lands matters

Government information and archives

Government studies and investigations

Indian lands and resources rights

Intergovernmental relations

Judicial review and appeals

Lakes and rivers

Land use and conservation

Licensing and registrations

Marine and coastal resources, fisheries

Oregon

Performance measurement

Public contracts and procurement

Rural conditions and development

State and local government operations

Water resources funding

Water storage

Water use and supply

Watersheds

Wetlands

Wildlife conservation and habitat protection
Latest action: action_date: 2015-10-08
text: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 114-381.

Summaries:
action_date: 2015-06-25
action_desc: Introduced in House
text: <p><b>Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015</b></p> Defines: (1) &quot;Delta&quot; as the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh; and (2) &quot;negative impact on the long-term survival&quot; as an appreciable reduction in the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. <p>TITLE I--ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE</p> <p>Requires the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), by October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, to cooperate with federal, California, and local agencies to use updated scientific and commercial data to modify the calculation of incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the biological opinion for the Central Valley Project (CVP) and the State Water Project (SWP) issued by the USFWS on December 15, 2008.</p> <p>Directs the USFWS to implement and make appropriate amendments to the reasonable and prudent alternative described in that smelt biological opinion. Requires the Department of the Interior to make all significant decisions in writing under the smelt opinion and any successor opinions affecting the CVP or the SWP. </p> <p>Requires Interior, on an annual basis, to determine: (1) the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity or other environmental factors that may influence salvage rate, and (2) how the CVP and SWP may be operated to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. </p> <p>Requires Interior, if suspended sediment loads from the Sacramento River appear likely to raise turbidity levels in specified areas during each period from December through March, to conduct daily monitoring to determine how increased trawling can inform real-time CVP and SWP operations.</p> <p>Directs Interior, by January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the California Department of Water Resources, public water agencies, and other interested entities, to implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and habitats during all life stages.</p> <p>Requires Interior, in implementing the smelt biological opinion pertaining to reverse flow in the Old and Middle River (OMR), to maximize CVP and SWP water supplies by managing export pumping rates to a reverse flow rate of -5,000 cubic feet per second, unless Interior provides documentation concluding that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of Delta smelt. Directs Interior to manage a more negative OMR flow rate if it can be established without an imminent negative impact.</p> <p>Requires the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and the USFWS to execute a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. Provides a framework under which reinitiation of consultation is unnecessary if any changes that the MOU makes to the biological opinion will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Prohibits procedural changes that do not create a significant negative impact on long-term survival from altering application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion.</p> <p>Directs Interior, for purposes of increasing CVP and SWP water supplies, to revise the method of calculating reverse flow in the OMR for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the USFWS's smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on June 4, 2009, and any succeeding opinion.</p> <p>TITLE II--ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE</p> <p>Establishes a process for Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries to provide for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the NMFS's salmonid biological opinion to be adjusted as new scientific and commercial data is developed. </p> <p>Requires Interior and the Department of Commerce, annually, to direct Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to implement certain recommended adjustments to project operations that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the CVP and the SWP. Requires implementation of adjustments for which: (1) the net effect on listed salmonid species and the Delta smelt is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be expected to fall within incidental take authorizations.</p> <p>Requires Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to evaluate potential species survival improvements likely to result from other measures that, if implemented, would offset adverse effects. </p> <p>Requires the Assistant Administrator to compare existing measures to increase through-Delta survival of salmonid through restrictions on export pumping rates to possible alternative management measures to increase salmonid survival through: (1) physical habitat restoration improvements, (2) predation control programs, (3) installation of temporary barriers or management of Cross Channel Gates operations, (4) salvaging near Clifton Court Forebay, or (5) conservation hatchery programs.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation to implement such an alternative measure in order to increase export rates if the Assistant Administrator determines that: (1) the alternative measure is technically feasible and within federal jurisdiction, or (2) California or a local agency has certified that it has the authority and capability to implement the alternative measure.</p> <p>Requires Commerce and California's Oakdale and South San Joaquin Irrigation Districts to conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. Requires the districts to be responsible for 100% of the cost of the program. </p> <p>TITLE III--OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF</p> <p>Requires the Departments of Agriculture (USDA), Commerce, and the Interior to approve projects and operations to provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable (to all individuals or districts that receive CVP water under water service or repayment contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements, to SWP contractors, and to any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in California) to address the emergency drought conditions for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request, and until two succeeding years after either of those events has been completed where the final index is 7.8 or greater. </p> <p>Provides for: (1) temporary barriers or operable gates to be designed so that formal consultations under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) are not necessary; (2) adoption of a 1:1 inflow to export ratio under specified conditions, as measured as a three-day running average at Vernalis during the period beginning on April 1, and ending on May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the ESA; and (3) water transfers through the C.W. &quot;Bill&quot; Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 if the transfers comply with California law.</p> <p>Provides expedited procedures for consideration of requests by the California governor relating to federal, state, or local projects or operations to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. </p> <p>Allows USDA, Commerce, or Interior to deem alternative arrangements for a project to be in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) during emergency drought conditions if immediate implementation is necessary to address: (1) human health and safety, or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25% or more of its tax revenue used to support public services.</p> <p>Sets forth requirements concerning: (1) development of drought plans; (2) operation of the Delta Cross Channel Gates; (3) the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641; (4) use of groundwater resources, implementation of offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins, management of reverse flow in the OMR, and actions to expedite CVP water transfers; (5) a program to allow certain agricultural, refuge, municipal, and industrial water service contractors to reschedule water provided for under CVP contracts from one year to the next; and (6) implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard to improve water supply reliability for CVP American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry years under current and future demand and climate change conditions. </p> <p>Repeals the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act and the related settlement. Deems certain fish and game requirements to be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon and trout.</p> <p>TITLE IV--CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES</p> <p>Establishes deadlines for water storage feasibility studies concerning specified dams and reservoirs under Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act.</p> <p> Requires Interior, if it finds the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River to be feasible, to manage land recommended in the Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan (dated December 2014) for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, regardless of whether Interior submits any official recommendation to Congress.</p> <p>Allows Reclamation to partner or enter into an agreement on certain water storage projects identified in the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to state law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region. </p> <p>Authorizes Interior to carry out feasible projects, but prohibits federal funds from being used for construction. </p> <p>TITLE V--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS</p> <p>Directs Interior to confer with the CDFW on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the SWP resulting from the implementation of this Act. </p> <p>Requires Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to adhere to California laws governing water rights priorities and honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the CVP, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914. </p> <p>Requires Interior to ensure that actions taken to comply with environmental laws do not: (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to recipients of water from either the SWP or the United States, or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River or San Joaquin River watersheds or the SWP service area. </p> <p>Directs Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with specified allocation percentages. Makes Interior's allocations subject to: (1) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, (2) the U.S. obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors, and (3) Interior's obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. Declares that Interior's allocation authority shall not be deemed to: (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (2) affect or limit Interior's authority to adopt, modify, or implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect allocations to CVP municipal and industrial contractors, including the utilization of such allocations as primary water sources for such contractors for purposes of calculating municipal and industrial water shortages; or (4) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. </p> <p>Requires Interior to develop and implement a program to allow existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their water service contracts, from one year to the next. </p> <p>Declares that nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under federal reclamation law to operate the CVP in conformity with state law, including established water rights priorities.</p> <p>TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS</p> <p>Includes the Kettleman City Community Services District within the CVP's authorized service area. Requires Interior to enter a long-term contract with such district for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of CVP water for municipal and industrial use, limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet immediate needs if local supplies or SWP allocations are insufficient. </p> <p>Amends the Central Valley Project Improvement Act to establish an advisory board to make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior regarding expenditures from the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund. </p> <p>Sets forth requirements concerning: (1) the accounting of CVP water credited to the quantity of CVP yield, and (2) implementation of an updated plan to increase the yield of the CVP by the amount dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes.</p> <p>Prohibits Interior and Commerce from distinguishing between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the ESA that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or tributary rivers.</p> <p>Directs Interior to negotiate with interested local water and power providers to transfer ownership, control, and operation of the CVP's New Melones Unit to interested local water and power providers in California.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation, in carrying out the climate change adaptation program, to expand opportunities and expedite assessments, with nonfederal partners, of risks to the water supply of sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins. Requires Reclamation to ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. Makes nonfederal partners responsible for 100% of the special study costs. </p> <p>Prohibits Interior, in operation of the CVP's Trinity River Division, from making releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type (i.e., critically dry, dry, normal, wet, extremely wet) required by Interior's record of decision in the Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. </p> <p>Restricts the definition of &quot;anadromous fish&quot; under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act to mean only native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers as of October 30, 1992, and that ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean.</p> <p>TITLE VII--WATER SUPPLY PERMITTING ACT</p> <p><i>Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act</i> </p> <p> Establishes Reclamation as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions (reviews) required under federal law to construct qualifying projects (defined as new surface water storage projects in the states covered under the Act of June 17, 1902, and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act on lands administered by Interior or USDA, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding). </p> <p>Directs Reclamation: (1) upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, to identify any federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a required review; and (2) to notify such agency that it has been designated as a cooperating agency unless the agency notifies Reclamation that the agency has no jurisdiction or authority over the project, has no expertise or information relevant to the project or any associated review, or does not intend to submit comments other than in cooperation with Reclamation. Requires each cooperating agency to submit to Reclamation: (1) a time frame for completing the agency's authorizing responsibilities, (2) all environmental review material produced in the course of carrying out activities required under federal law consistent with the project schedule, and (3) all relevant project data.</p> <p>Allows a state in which a qualifying project is being considered to choose to: (1) participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) make subject to the processes of this title all state agencies that have jurisdiction over the project, that are required to conduct or issue a review, or that are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the project. </p> <p>Lists as Reclamation's principal responsibilities under this title: (1) to serve as the point of contact for applicants, state agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) to coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) to coordinate all federal agency reviews necessary for the development and construction of qualifying projects. </p> <p>Authorizes Interior to accept and expend funds contributed by a nonfederal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. Directs Interior to ensure that all final permit decisions are made available to the public, including on the Internet.</p> <p>TITLE VIII--BUREAU OF RECLAMATION PROJECT STREAMLINING</p> <p><i>Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act</i> </p> <p>Sets forth provisions governing feasibility studies for water projects initiated by Interior under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (project studies).</p> <p>Requires a project study initiated after enactment of this title to: (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report within three years; (2) have a maximum federal cost of $3 million; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and Reclamation's headquarters levels concurrently conduct the required review. Sets forth factors for extending such time line for complex projects.</p> <p>Requires Interior, within 90 days after the initiation of a project study, to: (1) initiate the process for completing reviews, including environmental reviews, required to be completed as part of such study; (2) convene a meeting of federal, tribal, and state agencies required to act; and (3) provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. </p> <p>Directs Interior to: (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the enactment of this title; and (2) proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of a project that it determines is justified. </p> <p>Sets forth requirements applicable to: (1) project studies initiated after enactment of this title for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under NEPA; (2) other project studies initiated before such enactment for which an environmental review process document is prepared under NEPA; and (3) any project study for the development of a nonfederally owned and operated surface water storage project for which Interior determines there is a demonstrable federal interest and that is located in a river basin where other Reclamation water projects are located, that will create additional water supplies that support Reclamation water projects, or that will become integrated into the operation of Reclamation water projects. </p> <p>Requires Interior to: </p> <ul> <li>annually prepare a list of all such studies that do not have adequate funding for study completion; </li> <li>develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of such studies; </li> <li>identify early all federal, state, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may have jurisdiction and that may be required to act, which the federal lead agency shall invite to become participating or cooperating agencies; </li> <li>issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process; and </li> <li>establish an electronic database and issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable NEPA requirements and other action required for a project study. </li> </ul> <p>Sets forth the authorities and responsibilities of the joint lead agency, which may be a project sponsor, and the federal lead agency in the environmental review process, including: (1) the preparation and use of environmental documents; (2) establishing a plan for coordinating public and agency participation; (3) working with cooperating and participating agencies to identify and resolve issues that could delay process completion or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study; and (4) establishing, upon request, memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, and state and local governments to carry out the early coordination activities. Requires a federal lead agency to serve in that capacity for the entirety of all nonfederal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated, or administered by Reclamation. Directs Interior, upon determining that a project can be expedited by a nonfederal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable federal interest in expediting the project, to advance it as a nonfederal project. Requires a federal jurisdictional agency to complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis. Provides for a reduction of funds for such an agency that fails to render such a decision by a specified deadline. </p> <p>Directs Interior to: (1) survey the use by Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005 and propose a new categorical exclusion for a category of activities if merited, and (2) establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. </p> <p>Requires Interior to develop and submit annually a Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development that identifies: (1) the costs and benefits of, the nonfederal interests associated with, and the support for project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized water projects and project studies that are related to Reclamation's missions and authorities, that require specific congressional authorization, that have not been congressionally authorized, that have not been included in any previous annual report, and that, if authorized, could be carried out by Reclamation; and (2) any project study that was expedited under this title.</p> <p> Specifies surface water storage, rural water supply, wastewater, and groundwater projects to be included in such studies and reports. </p> <p>TITLE IX--ACCELERATED REVENUE, REPAYMENT, AND SURFACE WATER STORAGE ENHANCEMENT</p> <p><i>Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act</i></p> <p>Directs Interior to convert certain existing water service contracts between the United States and water users' associations to repayment contracts to allow for prepayment of such contracts, upon the request of the contractor. Specifies the manner of conversion and the terms and conditions of prepayment. </p> <p>Requires a specified percentage of certain receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this title, beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the enactment of this title, to be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account. Requires the Secretary to allocate amounts in such Account to fund the construction of surface water storage for: </p> <ul> <li>increased municipal and industrial water supply; </li> <li>agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction; </li> <li>agricultural drainage improvements; </li> <li>agricultural irrigation; </li> <li>increased recreation opportunities; and </li> <li>reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this Act. </li> </ul> <p>TITLE X--SAFETY OF DAMS</p> <p>Amends the Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 to authorize Interior, subject to a feasibility study, to develop additional project benefits (including additional conservation storage capacity) through the construction of new or supplementary works when it exercises its authority to modify Reclamation dams and related facilities to preserve their structural safety, provided that: (1) the additional project benefits will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities, (2) the feasibility study is authorized under the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965, and (3) the costs are allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with federal reclamation law. </p> <p>TITLE XI--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTION</p> <p><i>Water Rights Protection Act</i></p> <p>Prohibits Interior and USDA from:</p> <ul> <li> conditioning or withholding the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement (permit) on the limitation or encumbrance of any water right or the transfer of any water right to the United States or any other designee or on any other impairment of any water right under state law by federal or state action; </li> <li>requiring any water user (including a federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under state law as a condition of such a permit;</li> <li> asserting jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless consistent with state groundwater resource laws, regulations, and policies; or </li> <li>infringing on the rights and obligations of a state in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating state waters originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the federal government. </li> </ul>

action_date: 2015-07-13
action_desc: Reported to House amended, Part I
text: <p><b>Highlights:</b></p> <p>The Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 establishes procedures for the Department of the Interior, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Agriculture to address drought conditions in California by revising regulatory standards for managing conveyances of water to individual, agricultural, municipal, and industrial users from the California-based Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project in coordination with requirements for protecting threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, including fish species of salmonid and smelt in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh.</p> <p>The bill requires the use of updated data to adjust incidental take levels, water export restrictions, and other conservation measures set forth in a smelt biological opinion issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008, and in a salmonid biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, in order to increase water exports and maximize water supplies without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of certain species listed as threatened or endangered. </p> <p>The bill also provides for: (1) a nonnative predator fish removal program in the Stanislaus River, (2) the repeal of the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act and the related settlement, (3) expansion of the CVP's authorized service area to include the Kettleman City Community Services District, and (4) the use of expedited procedures to consider project requests from the California governor relating to emergency drought conditions.</p> <p>For areas within and beyond California, the bill revises or establishes requirements for water supply permits, prepayments on water service contracts, water efficiency considerations in dam safety projects, and water rights in land use decisions. <p><b>Full Summary:</b></p> <p><b>Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015</b></p> <p>TITLE I--ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE</p> <p>(Sec. 102) Establishes procedures to adjust Delta smelt management measures set forth in the smelt biological opinion for the Central Valley Project (CVP) and the State Water Project (SWP) in California issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) on December 15, 2008. </p> <p>Defines: (1) &quot;Delta&quot; as the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, and (2) &quot;Delta smelt&quot; as fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. </p> <p>Requires the USFWS, by October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, to cooperate with federal, California, and local agencies to use updated scientific and commercial data to modify the calculation of incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion. </p> <p>Requires the modified incidental take level to be set as the 80% upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993, based on factors including prespawning adult Delta smelt indexes and the flow of the Old and Middle River (OMR) during the adult salvage period, unless the USFWS determines that certain requirements are not appropriate.</p> <p>(Sec. 103) Directs the USFWS to implement and make appropriate amendments to the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the USFWS's smelt biological opinion. Requires Interior to make all significant decisions in writing under the smelt opinion and any successor opinions affecting the CVP or the SWP. </p> <p>Requires Interior to determine annually: (1) the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity or other environmental factors that may influence the salvage rate, and (2) how the CVP and SWP may be operated to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of Delta smelt. </p> <p>Defines &quot;negative impact on the long-term survival&quot; as an appreciable reduction in the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. </p> <p>Requires Interior, if suspended sediment loads from the Sacramento River appear likely to raise turbidity levels in specified areas during each period from December through March, to conduct daily monitoring to determine how increased trawling can inform real-time CVP and SWP operations.</p> <p>Directs Interior, by January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the California Department of Water Resources (CDWR), public water agencies, and other interested entities, to implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and habitats during all life stages.</p> <p>Requires Interior, in implementing provisions of the smelt biological opinion pertaining to reverse flow in the OMR, to maximize CVP and SWP water supplies by managing export pumping rates to a reverse flow rate of -5,000 cubic feet per second, unless Interior provides documentation concluding that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of Delta smelt. Directs Interior to manage a more negative OMR flow rate if it can be established without an imminent negative impact.</p> <p>Requires the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and the USFWS, by December 1, 2015, to execute a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. Provides a framework under which reinitiation of consultation is unnecessary if any changes that the MOU makes to the biological opinion will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Prohibits procedural changes that do not create a significant negative impact on long-term survival from altering application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion.</p> <p>Directs Interior, for purposes of increasing CVP and SWP water supplies, to revise the method of calculating reverse flow in the OMR for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the USFWS's smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on June 4, 2009, and any succeeding opinion.</p> <p>TITLE II--ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE</p> <p>(Sec. 202) Establishes a process for Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries (NOAA Fisheries, also known as the NMFS) to provide for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the NMFS's salmonid biological opinion to be adjusted as new scientific and commercial data is developed. </p> <p>Requires Interior and the Department of Commerce, by December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter, to direct Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to implement certain recommended adjustments to project operations (pertaining to negative OMR flows, timing and triggers for pumping restrictions, and inflow to export ratios) that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the CVP and the SWP. Requires implementation of adjustments for which: (1) the net effect on listed salmonid species and Delta smelt is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be expected to fall within incidental take authorizations.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to evaluate potential species survival improvements likely to result from other measures that, if implemented, would offset adverse effects.</p> <p>Requires survival estimates to be based on: (1) quantitative estimates, or (2) qualitative terms if scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates. </p> <p>Requires the Assistant Administrator to compare existing measures to increase through-Delta survival of salmonid through restrictions on export pumping rates to possible alternative management measures to increase salmonid survival through: (1) physical habitat restoration improvements, (2) predation control programs, (3) installation of temporary barriers or management of Cross Channel Gates operations, (4) salvaging near Clifton Court Forebay, or (5) conservation hatchery programs. Directs Reclamation to implement such an alternative measure in order to increase export rates if the Assistant Administrator determines that: (1) the alternative measure is technically feasible and within federal jurisdiction, or (2) California or a local agency has certified that it has the authority and capability to implement the alternative measure.</p> <p>Directs the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation to consider requiring the Assistant Administrator to show that the implementation of certain conservation measures is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on salmonid species before the measures are imposed in any specific instance.</p> <p>Requires the Assistant Administrator, the USFWS, and Reclamation to establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions to provide additional water supplies. Directs the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation to document the effects of any adaptive management decisions that prioritize the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other.</p> <p>Prohibits the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation from limiting OMR reverse flow to -5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicates that such a limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. </p> <p>Directs Commerce, if quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established to adjust the salmonid biological opinion's pumping restrictions exceed the through-Delta survival established for the opinion's reasonable and prudent alternatives, to evaluate and implement the adjusted management measures as a prerequisite to implementing the alternatives contained in the opinion. </p> <p>(Sec. 203) Directs Commerce and California's Oakdale and South San Joaquin Irrigation Districts (the districts) to conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. Requires the program to quantify the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish. Requires the districts to be responsible for 100% of the cost of such program. Directs Commerce to post on the NMFS's website a summary of the raw data collected under the program each month. Deems the program to be consistent with the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (CVPIA). Prohibits striped bass from being treated as anadromous fish for purposes of the CVPIA's application to the program.</p> <p>(Sec. 204) Directs Interior to collaborate with Commerce, the CDFW, and other relevant agencies and interested parties to begin pilot projects to implement the invasive species control program under P.L. 108-361. Requires the projects to: (1) seek to reduce invasive aquatic vegetation, predators, and other competitors that contribute to the decline of native listed pelagic and anadromous species that occupy the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta; and (2) remove, reduce, or control the effects of species, including Asiatic clams, silversides, gobies, Brazilian water weed, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, white and channel catfish, and brown bullheads.</p> <p>Terminates such pilot projects seven years after commencement of their implementation. </p> <p>TITLE III--OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF</p> <p>(Sec. 302) Requires the Departments of Agriculture (USDA), Commerce, and the Interior to approve projects and operations to provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or districts that receive CVP water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements, to SWP contractors, and to any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in California to address the emergency drought conditions for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request, and until two succeeding years after either of those events has been completed where the final index is 7.8 or greater. Directs Commerce and Interior to develop a drought operations plan for such periods. </p> <p>Provides for: (1) temporary barriers or operable gates to be designed so that formal consultations under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) are not necessary; (2) adoption of a 1:1 inflow to export ratio under specified conditions, as measured as a three-day running average at Vernalis between April 1 and May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the ESA; and (3) water transfers through the C.W. &quot;Bill&quot; Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 if the transfers comply with California law.</p> <p>Provides expedited procedures for consideration of requests by the California governor relating to federal, state, or local projects or operations to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. Requires Interior to convene a final project decision meeting with relevant federal agencies upon the request of the California governor, USDA, or Commerce. Directs the relevant federal agency to issue a final decision on the project within 10 days after the meeting is requested. Allows Interior to also convene such a meeting at its own discretion. </p> <p>(Sec. 303) Directs Commerce and Interior to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the U.S. Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of a California drought emergency declaration and for periods based on Sacramento Valley index levels, or at California's request, consistent with operational and monitoring criteria set forth in the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014, and other associated authorizations. Requires Commerce and Interior, with respect to such gate operations, to: (1) collect data on the impact of such operations on threatened or endangered species, water quality, water supply; (2) collaborate with the CDWR to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities in 2014 and 2015; (3) evaluate combined salmonid survival when deciding how to operate the gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (4) notify Congress by May 15, 2016, regarding the extent to which the gates are able to remain open.</p> <p>Directs Interior to recommend revisions to gate operations, the CVP, and the SWP that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. </p> <p>(Sec. 304) Sets forth requirements concerning Reclamation's responsibility to continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641 during and in the period after the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request.</p> <p>(Sec. 305) Allows USDA, Commerce, or Interior to deem alternative arrangements for a project to be in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) during emergency drought conditions if immediate implementation is necessary to address: (1) human health and safety, or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25% or more of its tax revenue used to support public services. Requires consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality to develop such alternative arrangements.</p> <p>(Sec. 306) Sets forth requirements regarding: (1) the implementation of offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on threatened or endangered species; (2) management of a more negative reverse flow in the OMR for specific periods; and (3) scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of Reclamation, California, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies.</p> <p>(Sec. 307) Requires USDA, Commerce, and Interior to authorize the CVP and the SWP to operate (within ranges permitted by applicable environmental laws) at levels that result in negative OMR flows at -7,500 cubic feet per second daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1. Authorizes such temporary operational flexibility on days that the CDWR determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at or above 17,000 cubic feet per second.</p> <p>Allows OMR flow, during the first flush of sediment out of the Delta each water year, to be managed at rates less negative than -5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at CVP and SWP pumping plants. </p> <p>Requires Reclamation to monitor such operations to ensure that incidental take levels are not exceeded. </p> <p>Provides a process for Reclamation to use emergency consultation procedures under the ESA to temporarily adjust operating procedures of the relevant biological opinions if operational flexibility actions implemented under this section will exceed 56 days.</p> <p>(Sec. 308) Amends the CVPIA to provide Interior with procedures for expedited transfers of CVP water to assist California urban areas, agricultural water users, and others in meeting their future water needs.</p> <p>(Sec. 309) Exempts from mitigation measure requirements certain operating criteria adjustments, or urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by Reclamation, during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final index is 7.8 or greater. Requires any mitigation measures imposed to be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species.</p> <p>(Sec. 310) Directs Reclamation to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water, and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in that basin. Requires the source of water for any storage program at New Melones Reservoir to be made available under a valid water right.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation to inform Congress of the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under such program, including proposals from interested parties.</p> <p>(Sec. 311) Requires Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, to expedite evaluation, completion, and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for CVP American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry years under current and future demand and climate change conditions.</p> <p>(Sec. 312) Provides for SWP and CVP contractors, if Reclamation or another federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the USFWS or the NMFS with respect to construction or operation of the CVP and SWP, to be accorded all rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process.</p> <p>(Sec. 313) Repeals the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act and the related stipulation of settlement in <i>Natural Resources Defense Council</i> <i>v. Rodgers </i>in the Eastern District of California. Deems certain fish and game requirements to be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River (below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford) that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon and trout.</p> <p>(Sec. 314) Requires Interior, by December 31, 2015, to develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, as well as refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed, to reschedule water provided for under their CVP contracts from one year to the next. Conditions such rescheduling on the program being consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines utilized by Reclamation for rescheduling water for CVP water service contractors that are located south of the Delta.</p> <p>TITLE IV--CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES</p> <p>(Sec. 401) Establishes deadlines for Interior, through Reclamation, to complete and submit to Congress water storage feasibility studies concerning specified dams and reservoirs under the Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act. Requires cooperation with public water agencies that contract with the United States for CVP water and that are expected to participate in the cost pools for the proposed projects.</p> <p>Directs the Secretary of the Interior, if a feasibility report is not submitted on time, to notify each of the relevant congressional committee chairs individually in person on the status of each project once a month until the study is provided to Congress.</p> <p>(Sec. 402) Prohibits the Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan (RMP), dated December 2014, and the related findings from having any effect on or applicability to Interior's determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to: (1) the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River, or (2) Interior's actions regarding Upper San Joaquin River storage in Fresno and Madera Counties.</p> <p>Requires Interior, if it finds the Temperance Flat project to be feasible, to manage land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, regardless of whether Interior submits any official recommendation to Congress.</p> <p>(Sec. 404) Allows Reclamation to partner or enter into an agreement on certain water storage projects identified in the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to state law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region. </p> <p>Authorizes Interior to carry out feasible projects, but prohibits federal funds from being used for construction. </p> <p>TITLE V--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS</p> <p>(Sec. 501) Directs Interior to confer with the CDFW on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the SWP resulting from the implementation of this Act. Requires additional yield to be made available for delivery to SWP contractors to offset any losses that result if a CDFW consistency determination or take authorization resulting from this Act reduces water supply to the SWP as compared with water supply available under the smelt and the salmonid biological opinions.</p> <p>Directs Interior to notify the CDFW if implementation of the biological opinions under this Act reduces environmental protections for species covered by such opinions. </p> <p>(Sec. 502) Requires Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to adhere to California laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the CVP, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914. </p> <p>(Sec. 503) Requires Interior to ensure that actions taken to comply with environmental laws do not: (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to recipients of water from either the SWP or the United States, or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River or San Joaquin River watersheds or the SWP service area. </p> <p>(Sec. 504) Directs Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with specified allocation percentages. Makes Interior's allocations subject to: (1) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, (2) the U.S. obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors, and (3) Interior's obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to the CVPIA. Declares that Interior's allocation authority shall not be deemed to: (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (2) affect or limit Interior's authority to adopt, modify, or implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect allocations to CVP municipal and industrial contractors; (4) affect the allocation of water to Friant Division contractors; or (5) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. </p> <p>Requires Interior to develop and implement a program to allow existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their water service contracts, from one year to the next. </p> <p>(Sec. 505) Declares that nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under federal reclamation law to operate the CVP in conformity with state law, including established water rights priorities.</p> <p>TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS</p> <p>(Sec. 601) Includes the Kettleman City Community Services District within the CVP's authorized service area. Requires Interior to enter a long-term contract with such district for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of CVP water for municipal and industrial use, limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet immediate needs if local supplies or SWP allocations are insufficient. </p> <p>(Sec. 602) Amends the CVPIA to establish an advisory board to make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior regarding expenditures from the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund. </p> <p>Directs Interior, for each fiscal year, to consult with the advisory board to submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. Requires the plan to include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. </p> <p>Requires the advisory board to submit: (1) annually to Congress and Interior recommendations regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs; and (2) biennially to Congress details regarding progress on certain fish, wildlife, and water management and conservation actions. </p> <p>(Sec. 603) Sets forth requirements concerning the accounting of CVP water credited to the quantity of CVP yield, excluding CVP water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report, dated December 2000, used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by agreements pertaining to the CVP under applicable state or federal law existing on October 30, 1992. Prohibits reclamation policies and allocations from being based upon a premise that CVP contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply.</p> <p>(Sec. 604) Directs Interior to implement an updated plan under the CVPIA to increase the yield of the CVP by the amount dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes. Sets forth a potential amendment that would automatically reduce by 25% the annual quantity of CVP yield that is dedicated and managed for fish, wildlife, and habitat restoration purposes, and for assisting California in protecting waters of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Estuary, if: (1) the updated plan has not increased CVP yield by 800,000 acre-feet within five years after enactment of this Act; and (2) by March 15, 2021, and any year thereafter the quantity of CVP water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the CVP is below 50% of the total quantity of water to be made available under such contracts. (Currently, Interior is authorized to temporarily reduce deliveries of the quantity of water dedicated for such purposes by up to 25% whenever reductions due to hydrologic circumstances are imposed upon CVP agricultural deliveries.)</p> <p>(Sec. 605) Prohibits Interior and Commerce from distinguishing between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the ESA that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or tributary rivers.</p> <p>(Sec. 606) Directs Interior to negotiate with interested local water and power providers to transfer ownership, control, and operation of the CVP's New Melones Unit to interested local water and power providers in California.</p> <p>Requires Interior to notify Congress every six months regarding the status of such negotiations, past and present formal discussions, and any actions that the United States should take to finalize the transfer agreement. </p> <p>(Sec. 607) Directs Reclamation, in carrying out the climate change adaptation program, to expand opportunities and expedite assessments, with nonfederal partners, of risks to the water supply of sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins. Requires Reclamation to ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. Makes nonfederal partners responsible for 100% of the special study costs. </p> <p>(Sec. 608) Prohibits Interior, in operation of the CVP's Trinity River Division, from making releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type (i.e., critically dry, dry, normal, wet, extremely wet) required by Interior's record of decision in the Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. </p> <p>(Sec. 609) Expands the purposes of the CVPIA to include: (1) ensuring that certain water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes is replaced and provided to CVP water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable, and (2) facilitating and expediting CVPIA water transfers.</p> <p>(Sec. 610) Redefines &quot;anadromous fish&quot; under the CVPIA to: (1) restrict the definition to only native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers as of October 30, 1992, and that ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean, and (2) exclude striped bass and American shad.</p> <p>TITLE VII--WATER SUPPLY PERMITTING ACT</p> <p><i>Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act</i> </p> <p> (Sec. 703) Establishes Reclamation as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions (reviews) required under federal law to construct qualifying projects (defined as new surface water storage projects in the states covered under the Act of June 17, 1902, on lands administered by Interior or USDA, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding). </p> <p>Directs Reclamation: (1) upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, to identify any federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a required review; and (2) to notify such agency that it has been designated as a cooperating agency unless the agency notifies Reclamation that the agency has no jurisdiction or authority over the project, has no expertise or information relevant to the project or any associated review, or does not intend to submit comments other than in cooperation with Reclamation. </p> <p>Allows a state in which a qualifying project is being considered to choose to: (1) participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) make subject to the processes of this title all state agencies that have jurisdiction over the project, that are required to conduct or issue a review, or that are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the project. </p> <p>(Sec. 704) Lists as Reclamation's principal responsibilities under this title: (1) to serve as the point of contact for applicants, state agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) to coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) to coordinate all federal agency reviews necessary for the development and construction of qualifying projects. </p> <p>(Sec. 705) Requires each cooperating agency to submit to Reclamation: (1) a time frame for completing the agency's authorizing responsibilities, (2) all environmental review material produced in the course of carrying out activities required under federal law consistent with the project schedule, and (3) all relevant project data.</p> <p>(Sec. 706) Authorizes Interior to accept and expend funds contributed by a nonfederal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. Directs Interior to ensure that all final permit decisions are made available to the public, including on the Internet.</p> <p>TITLE VIII--BUREAU OF RECLAMATION PROJECT STREAMLINING</p> <p><i>Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act</i> </p> <p>(Sec. 803) Sets forth provisions governing feasibility studies for water projects initiated by Interior under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (project studies).</p> <p>Requires a project study initiated after enactment of this title to: (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report within three years; (2) have a maximum federal cost of $3 million; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and Reclamation's headquarters levels concurrently conduct the required review. Sets forth factors for extending such time line for complex projects. Requires Interior to notify Congress of any determinations that a project is complex. </p> <p>Requires Interior, within 90 days after the initiation of a project study, to: (1) initiate the process for completing reviews, including environmental reviews, required to be completed as part of such study; (2) convene a meeting of federal, tribal, and state agencies required to act; and (3) provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. </p> <p>Directs Interior to submit to Congress, and make publicly available, information regarding the status of the implementation of this Act and the relevant project studies. Requires: (1) an interim report within 18 months after enactment of this Act, and (2) a final report within four years after enactment of this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 804) Directs Interior to: (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the enactment of this title; and (2) proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of a project that it determines is justified. </p> <p>(Sec. 805) Sets forth requirements applicable to: (1) project studies initiated after enactment of this title for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under NEPA; (2) other project studies initiated before such enactment for which an environmental review process document is prepared under NEPA; and (3) any project study for the development of a nonfederally owned and operated surface water storage project for which Interior determines there is a demonstrable federal interest and that is located in a river basin where other Reclamation water projects are located, that will create additional water supplies that support Reclamation water projects or that will become integrated into the operation of Reclamation water projects. </p> <p>Requires Interior to: </p> <ul> <li>annually prepare a list of all such studies that do not have adequate funding for study completion; </li> <li>develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of such studies; </li> <li>identify early all federal, state, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may have jurisdiction and that may be required to act, which the federal lead agency shall invite to become participating or cooperating agencies; </li> <li>issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process; and </li> <li>establish an electronic database and issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable NEPA requirements and other action required for a project study. </li> </ul> <p>Sets forth the authorities and responsibilities of the joint lead agency, which may be a project sponsor, and the federal lead agency in the environmental review process, including: (1) the preparation and use of environmental documents; (2) establishing a plan for coordinating public and agency participation; (3) working with cooperating and participating agencies to identify and resolve issues that could delay process completion or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study; and (4) establishing, upon request, memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, and state and local governments to carry out the early coordination activities. Requires a federal lead agency to serve in that capacity for the entirety of all nonfederal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated, or administered by Reclamation. Directs Interior, upon determining that a project can be expedited by a nonfederal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable federal interest in expediting the project, to advance it as a nonfederal project. Requires a federal jurisdictional agency to complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis. </p> <p>Provides for a reduction of funds for the office of the head of such an agency that fails to render such a decision by a specified deadline. Requires such funds to be made available (transferred) to the division of the federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than one day after the specified deadline and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered. Directs the agency, within 10 days after the last date in a fiscal year on which funds of the federal jurisdictional agency may be transferred with respect to an individual decision, to provide written notification to Congress regarding the decision, project study, and transfer amounts. </p> <p>Allows Reclamation to establish memoranda of agreement with project sponsors, Indian tribes, and state and local governments to carry out early coordination activities and provide technical assistance.</p> <p>Directs Interior to: (1) survey the use by Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005 and propose a new categorical exclusion for a category of activities if merited, and (2) establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. </p> <p>Requires the Government Accountability Office to submit reports to Congress (within 5 years and within 10 years after enactment of this Act) evaluating the impact of project acceleration measures on project delivery, compliance with environmental laws, and environmental impacts of projects. </p> <p>Sets forth conditions concerning the categorical exclusion treatment of repairs, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of Reclamation surface water storage projects that are in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 806) Requires Interior to develop and submit annually a Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development that identifies: (1) the costs and benefits of, the nonfederal interests associated with, and the support for project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized water projects and project studies that are related to Reclamation's missions and authorities, that require specific congressional authorization, that have not been congressionally authorized, that have not been included in any previous annual report, and that, if authorized, could be carried out by Reclamation; and (2) any project study that was expedited under this title.</p> <p> Specifies surface water storage, rural water supply, wastewater, and groundwater projects to be included in such studies and reports. </p> <p>TITLE IX--ACCELERATED REVENUE, REPAYMENT, AND SURFACE WATER STORAGE ENHANCEMENT</p> <p><i>Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act</i></p> <p>(Sec. 902) Directs Interior to convert certain existing water service contracts between the United States and water users' associations to repayment contracts to allow for prepayment of such contracts, upon the request of the contractor. Specifies the manner of conversion and the terms and conditions of prepayment. </p> <p>Requires a specified percentage of certain receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this title, beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the enactment of this title, to be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account. Requires the Secretary to allocate amounts in such Account to fund the construction of surface water storage for: </p> <ul> <li>increased municipal and industrial water supply; </li> <li>agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction; </li> <li>agricultural drainage improvements; </li> <li>agricultural irrigation; </li> <li>increased recreation opportunities; and </li> <li>reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this Act. </li> </ul> <p>TITLE X--SAFETY OF DAMS</p> <p>(Sec. 1001) Amends the Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 to authorize Interior, subject to a feasibility study, to develop additional project benefits (including additional conservation storage capacity) through the construction of new or supplementary works when it exercises its authority to modify Reclamation dams and related facilities to preserve their structural safety, provided that: (1) the additional project benefits will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities, (2) the feasibility study is authorized under the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965, and (3) the costs are agreed to in writing between Interior and the project proponents and are allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with federal reclamation law. </p> <p>TITLE XI--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTION</p> <p><i>Water Rights Protection Act</i></p> <p>(Sec. 1103) Prohibits Interior and USDA from:</p> <ul> <li> conditioning or withholding the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement (permit) on the limitation or encumbrance of any water right or the transfer of any water right to the United States or any other designee or any other impairment of any water right under state law by federal or state action; </li> <li>requiring any water user (including a federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under state law as a condition of such a permit;</li> <li> asserting jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless consistent with state groundwater resource laws, regulations, and policies; or </li> <li>infringing on the rights and obligations of a state in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating state waters originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the federal government. </li> </ul> <p>(Sec. 1104) Requires Interior and USDA to coordinate with states to ensure that federal actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, state groundwater laws and programs. Prohibits Interior and USDA from taking actions that adversely affect: (1) water rights granted by a state, (2) a state's authority to adjudicate water rights, (3) groundwater withdrawal conditions and conservation measures established by a state, or (4) the use of groundwater in accordance with state law. </p>

action_date: 2015-07-16
action_desc: Passed House amended
text: <p><b>Highlights:</b></p> <p>The Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 establishes procedures for the Department of the Interior, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Agriculture to address drought conditions in California by revising regulatory standards for managing conveyances of water to individual, agricultural, municipal, and industrial users from the California-based Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project in coordination with requirements for protecting threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, including fish species of salmonid and smelt in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh.</p> <p>The bill requires the use of updated data to adjust incidental take levels, water export restrictions, and other conservation measures set forth in a smelt biological opinion issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008, and in a salmonid biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, in order to increase water exports and maximize water supplies without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of certain species listed as threatened or endangered. </p> <p>The bill also provides for: (1) a nonnative predator fish removal program in the Stanislaus River, (2) the repeal of the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act and the related settlement, (3) expansion of the CVP's authorized service area to include the Kettleman City Community Services District, and (4) the use of expedited procedures to consider project requests from the California governor relating to emergency drought conditions.</p> <p>For areas within and beyond California, the bill revises or establishes requirements for water supply permits, prepayments on water service contracts, water efficiency considerations in dam safety projects, and water rights in land use decisions. <p><b>Full Summary:</b></p> <p><b>Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015</b></p> <p>TITLE I--ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE</p> <p>(Sec. 102) Establishes procedures to adjust Delta smelt management measures set forth in the smelt biological opinion for the Central Valley Project (CVP) and the State Water Project (SWP) in California issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) on December 15, 2008. </p> <p>Defines: (1) &quot;Delta&quot; as the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, and (2) &quot;Delta smelt&quot; as fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. </p> <p>Requires the USFWS, by October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, to cooperate with federal, California, and local agencies to use updated scientific and commercial data to modify the calculation of incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion. </p> <p>Requires the modified incidental take level to be set as the 80% upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993, based on factors including prespawning adult Delta smelt indexes and the flow of the Old and Middle River (OMR) during the adult salvage period, unless the USFWS determines that certain requirements are not appropriate.</p> <p>(Sec. 103) Directs the USFWS to implement and make appropriate amendments to the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the USFWS's smelt biological opinion. Requires Interior to make all significant decisions in writing under the smelt opinion and any successor opinions affecting the CVP or the SWP. </p> <p>Requires Interior to determine annually: (1) the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity or other environmental factors that may influence the salvage rate, and (2) how the CVP and SWP may be operated to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of Delta smelt. </p> <p>Defines &quot;negative impact on the long-term survival&quot; as an appreciable reduction in the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. </p> <p>Requires Interior, if suspended sediment loads from the Sacramento River appear likely to raise turbidity levels in specified areas during each period from December through March, to conduct daily monitoring to determine how increased trawling can inform real-time CVP and SWP operations.</p> <p>Directs Interior, by January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the California Department of Water Resources (CDWR), public water agencies, and other interested entities, to implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and habitats during all life stages.</p> <p>Requires Interior, in implementing provisions of the smelt biological opinion pertaining to reverse flow in the OMR, to maximize CVP and SWP water supplies by managing export pumping rates to a reverse flow rate of -5,000 cubic feet per second, unless Interior provides documentation concluding that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of Delta smelt. Directs Interior to manage a more negative OMR flow rate if it can be established without an imminent negative impact.</p> <p>Requires the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) and the USFWS, by December 1, 2015, to execute a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. Provides a framework under which reinitiation of consultation is unnecessary if any changes that the MOU makes to the biological opinion will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Prohibits procedural changes that do not create a significant negative impact on long-term survival from altering application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion.</p> <p>Directs Interior, for purposes of increasing CVP and SWP water supplies, to revise the method of calculating reverse flow in the OMR for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the USFWS's smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on June 4, 2009, and any succeeding opinion.</p> <p>TITLE II--ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE</p> <p>(Sec. 202) Establishes a process for Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries (NOAA Fisheries, also known as the NMFS) to provide for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the NMFS's salmonid biological opinion to be adjusted as new scientific and commercial data is developed. </p> <p>Requires Interior and the Department of Commerce, by December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter, to direct Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to implement certain recommended adjustments to project operations (pertaining to negative OMR flows, timing and triggers for pumping restrictions, and inflow to export ratios) that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the CVP and the SWP. Requires implementation of adjustments for which: (1) the net effect on listed salmonid species and Delta smelt is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be expected to fall within incidental take authorizations.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation and the Assistant Administrator to evaluate potential species survival improvements likely to result from other measures that, if implemented, would offset adverse effects.</p> <p>Requires survival estimates to be based on: (1) quantitative estimates, or (2) qualitative terms if scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates. </p> <p>Requires the Assistant Administrator to compare existing measures to increase through-Delta survival of salmonid through restrictions on export pumping rates to possible alternative management measures to increase salmonid survival through: (1) physical habitat restoration improvements, (2) predation control programs, (3) installation of temporary barriers or management of Cross Channel Gates operations, (4) salvaging near Clifton Court Forebay, or (5) conservation hatchery programs. Directs Reclamation to implement such an alternative measure in order to increase export rates if the Assistant Administrator determines that: (1) the alternative measure is technically feasible and within federal jurisdiction, or (2) California or a local agency has certified that it has the authority and capability to implement the alternative measure.</p> <p>Directs the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation to consider requiring the Assistant Administrator to show that the implementation of certain conservation measures is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on salmonid species before the measures are imposed in any specific instance.</p> <p>Requires the Assistant Administrator, the USFWS, and Reclamation to establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions to provide additional water supplies. Directs the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation to document the effects of any adaptive management decisions that prioritize the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other.</p> <p>Prohibits the Assistant Administrator and Reclamation from limiting OMR reverse flow to -5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicates that such a limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. </p> <p>Directs Commerce, if quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established to adjust the salmonid biological opinion's pumping restrictions exceed the through-Delta survival established for the opinion's reasonable and prudent alternatives, to evaluate and implement the adjusted management measures as a prerequisite to implementing the alternatives contained in the opinion. </p> <p>(Sec. 203) Directs Commerce and California's Oakdale and South San Joaquin Irrigation Districts (the districts) to conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. Requires the program to quantify the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish. Requires the districts to be responsible for 100% of the cost of such program. Directs Commerce to post on the NMFS's website a summary of the raw data collected under the program each month. Deems the program to be consistent with the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (CVPIA). Prohibits striped bass from being treated as anadromous fish for purposes of the CVPIA's application to the program.</p> <p>(Sec. 204) Directs Interior to collaborate with Commerce, the CDFW, and other relevant agencies and interested parties to begin pilot projects to implement the invasive species control program under P.L. 108-361. Requires the projects to: (1) seek to reduce invasive aquatic vegetation, predators, and other competitors that contribute to the decline of native listed pelagic and anadromous species that occupy the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta; and (2) remove, reduce, or control the effects of species, including Asiatic clams, silversides, gobies, Brazilian water weed, water hyacinth, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, white and channel catfish, and brown bullheads.</p> <p>Terminates such pilot projects seven years after commencement of their implementation. </p> <p>TITLE III--OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF</p> <p>(Sec. 302) Requires the Departments of Agriculture (USDA), Commerce, and the Interior to approve projects and operations to provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or districts that receive CVP water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements, to SWP contractors, and to any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in California to address the emergency drought conditions for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request, and until two succeeding years after either of those events has been completed where the final index is 7.8 or greater. Directs Commerce and Interior to develop a drought operations plan for such periods. </p> <p>Provides for: (1) temporary barriers or operable gates to be designed so that formal consultations under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) are not necessary; (2) adoption of a 1:1 inflow to export ratio under specified conditions, as measured as a three-day running average at Vernalis between April 1 and May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the ESA; and (3) water transfers through the C.W. &quot;Bill&quot; Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 if the transfers comply with California law.</p> <p>Provides expedited procedures for consideration of requests by the California governor relating to federal, state, or local projects or operations to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. Requires Interior to convene a final project decision meeting with relevant federal agencies upon the request of the California governor, USDA, or Commerce. Directs the relevant federal agency to issue a final decision on the project within 10 days after the meeting is requested. Allows Interior to also convene such a meeting at its own discretion. </p> <p>(Sec. 303) Directs Commerce and Interior to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the U.S. Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of a California drought emergency declaration and for periods based on Sacramento Valley index levels, or at California's request, consistent with operational and monitoring criteria set forth in the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014, and other associated authorizations. Requires Commerce and Interior, with respect to such gate operations, to: (1) collect data on the impact of such operations on threatened or endangered species, water quality, water supply; (2) collaborate with the CDWR to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities in 2014 and 2015; (3) evaluate combined salmonid survival when deciding how to operate the gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (4) notify Congress by May 15, 2016, regarding the extent to which the gates are able to remain open.</p> <p>Directs Interior to recommend revisions to gate operations, the CVP, and the SWP that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. </p> <p>(Sec. 304) Sets forth requirements concerning Reclamation's responsibility to continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641 during and in the period after the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request.</p> <p>(Sec. 305) Allows USDA, Commerce, or Interior to deem alternative arrangements for a project to be in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) during emergency drought conditions if immediate implementation is necessary to address: (1) human health and safety, or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25% or more of its tax revenue used to support public services. Requires consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality to develop such alternative arrangements.</p> <p>(Sec. 306) Sets forth requirements regarding: (1) the implementation of offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on threatened or endangered species; (2) management of a more negative reverse flow in the OMR for specific periods; and (3) scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of Reclamation, California, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies.</p> <p>(Sec. 307) Requires USDA, Commerce, and Interior to authorize the CVP and the SWP to operate (within ranges permitted by applicable environmental laws) at levels that result in negative OMR flows at -7,500 cubic feet per second daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1. Authorizes such temporary operational flexibility on days that the CDWR determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at or above 17,000 cubic feet per second.</p> <p>Allows OMR flow, during the first flush of sediment out of the Delta each water year, to be managed at rates less negative than -5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at CVP and SWP pumping plants. </p> <p>Requires Reclamation to monitor such operations to ensure that incidental take levels are not exceeded. </p> <p>Provides a process for Reclamation to use emergency consultation procedures under the ESA to temporarily adjust operating procedures of the relevant biological opinions if operational flexibility actions implemented under this section will exceed 56 days.</p> <p>(Sec. 308) Amends the CVPIA to provide Interior with procedures for expedited transfers of CVP water to assist California urban areas, agricultural water users, and others in meeting their future water needs.</p> <p>(Sec. 309) Exempts from mitigation measure requirements certain operating criteria adjustments, or urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by Reclamation, during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at California's request, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final index is 7.8 or greater. Requires any mitigation measures imposed to be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species.</p> <p>(Sec. 310) Directs Reclamation to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water, and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in that basin. Requires the source of water for any storage program at New Melones Reservoir to be made available under a valid water right.</p> <p>Directs Reclamation to inform Congress of the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under such program, including proposals from interested parties.</p> <p>(Sec. 311) Requires Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, to expedite evaluation, completion, and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for CVP American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry years under current and future demand and climate change conditions.</p> <p>(Sec. 312) Provides for SWP and CVP contractors, if Reclamation or another federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the USFWS or the NMFS with respect to construction or operation of the CVP and SWP, to be accorded all rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process.</p> <p>(Sec. 313) Repeals the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act and the related stipulation of settlement in <i>Natural Resources Defense Council</i> <i>v. Rodgers </i>in the Eastern District of California. Deems certain fish and game requirements to be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River (below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford) that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon and trout.</p> <p>(Sec. 314) Requires Interior, by December 31, 2015, to develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, as well as refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed, to reschedule water provided for under their CVP contracts from one year to the next. Conditions such rescheduling on the program being consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines utilized by Reclamation for rescheduling water for CVP water service contractors that are located south of the Delta.</p> <p>TITLE IV--CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES</p> <p>(Sec. 401) Establishes deadlines for Interior, through Reclamation, to complete and submit to Congress water storage feasibility studies concerning specified dams and reservoirs under the Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act. Requires cooperation with public water agencies that contract with the United States for CVP water and that are expected to participate in the cost pools for the proposed projects.</p> <p>Directs the Secretary of the Interior, if a feasibility report is not submitted on time, to notify each of the relevant congressional committee chairs individually in person on the status of each project once a month until the study is provided to Congress.</p> <p>(Sec. 402) Prohibits the Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan (RMP), dated December 2014, and the related findings from having any effect on or applicability to Interior's determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to: (1) the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River, or (2) Interior's actions regarding Upper San Joaquin River storage in Fresno and Madera Counties.</p> <p>Requires Interior, if it finds the Temperance Flat project to be feasible, to manage land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, regardless of whether Interior submits any official recommendation to Congress.</p> <p>(Sec. 404) Allows Reclamation to partner or enter into an agreement on certain water storage projects identified in the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to state law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region. </p> <p>Authorizes Interior to carry out feasible projects, but prohibits federal funds from being used for construction. </p> <p>TITLE V--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS</p> <p>(Sec. 501) Directs Interior to confer with the CDFW on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the SWP resulting from the implementation of this Act. Requires additional yield to be made available for delivery to SWP contractors to offset any losses that result if a CDFW consistency determination or take authorization resulting from this Act reduces water supply to the SWP as compared with water supply available under the smelt and the salmonid biological opinions.</p> <p>Directs Interior to notify the CDFW if implementation of the biological opinions under this Act reduces environmental protections for species covered by such opinions. </p> <p>(Sec. 502) Requires Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to adhere to California laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the CVP, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914. </p> <p>(Sec. 503) Requires Interior to ensure that actions taken to comply with environmental laws do not: (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to recipients of water from either the SWP or the United States, or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River or San Joaquin River watersheds or the SWP service area. </p> <p>(Sec. 504) Directs Interior, in the operation of the CVP, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with specified allocation percentages. Makes Interior's allocations subject to: (1) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, (2) the U.S. obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors, and (3) Interior's obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to the CVPIA. Declares that Interior's allocation authority shall not be deemed to: (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (2) affect or limit Interior's authority to adopt, modify, or implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect allocations to CVP municipal and industrial contractors; (4) affect the allocation of water to Friant Division contractors; or (5) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. </p> <p>Requires Interior to develop and implement a program to allow existing CVP agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their water service contracts, from one year to the next. </p> <p>(Sec. 505) Declares that nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under federal reclamation law to operate the CVP in conformity with state law, including established water rights priorities.</p> <p>TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS</p> <p>(Sec. 601) Includes the Kettleman City Community Services District within the CVP's authorized service area. Requires Interior to enter a long-term contract with such district for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of CVP water for municipal and industrial use, limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet immediate needs if local supplies or SWP allocations are insufficient. </p> <p>(Sec. 602) Amends the CVPIA to establish an advisory board to make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior regarding expenditures from the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund. </p> <p>Directs Interior, for each fiscal year, to consult with the advisory board to submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. Requires the plan to include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. </p> <p>Requires the advisory board to submit: (1) annually to Congress and Interior recommendations regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs; and (2) biennially to Congress details regarding progress on certain fish, wildlife, and water management and conservation actions. </p> <p>(Sec. 603) Sets forth requirements concerning the accounting of CVP water credited to the quantity of CVP yield, excluding CVP water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report, dated December 2000, used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by agreements pertaining to the CVP under applicable state or federal law existing on October 30, 1992. Prohibits reclamation policies and allocations from being based upon a premise that CVP contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply.</p> <p>(Sec. 604) Directs Interior to implement an updated plan under the CVPIA to increase the yield of the CVP by the amount dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes. Sets forth a potential amendment that would automatically reduce by 25% the annual quantity of CVP yield that is dedicated and managed for fish, wildlife, and habitat restoration purposes, and for assisting California in protecting waters of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Estuary, if: (1) the updated plan has not increased CVP yield by 800,000 acre-feet within five years after enactment of this Act; and (2) by March 15, 2021, and any year thereafter the quantity of CVP water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the CVP is below 50% of the total quantity of water to be made available under such contracts. (Currently, Interior is authorized to temporarily reduce deliveries of the quantity of water dedicated for such purposes by up to 25% whenever reductions due to hydrologic circumstances are imposed upon CVP agricultural deliveries.)</p> <p>(Sec. 605) Prohibits Interior and Commerce from distinguishing between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the ESA that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or tributary rivers.</p> <p>(Sec. 606) Directs Interior to negotiate with interested local water and power providers to transfer ownership, control, and operation of the CVP's New Melones Unit to interested local water and power providers in California.</p> <p>Requires Interior to notify Congress every six months regarding the status of such negotiations, past and present formal discussions, and any actions that the United States should take to finalize the transfer agreement. </p> <p>(Sec. 607) Directs Reclamation, in carrying out the climate change adaptation program, to expand opportunities and expedite assessments, with nonfederal partners, of risks to the water supply of sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins. Requires Reclamation to ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. Makes nonfederal partners responsible for 100% of the special study costs. </p> <p>(Sec. 608) Prohibits Interior, in operation of the CVP's Trinity River Division, from making releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type (i.e., critically dry, dry, normal, wet, extremely wet) required by Interior's record of decision in the Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. </p> <p>(Sec. 609) Expands the purposes of the CVPIA to include: (1) ensuring that certain water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes is replaced and provided to CVP water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable, and (2) facilitating and expediting CVPIA water transfers.</p> <p>(Sec. 610) Redefines &quot;anadromous fish&quot; under the CVPIA to: (1) restrict the definition to only native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers as of October 30, 1992, and that ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean, and (2) exclude striped bass and American shad.</p> <p>(Sec. 611) Directs Interior to publish an annual report detailing instream flow releases from the CVP and the SWP, their explicit purpose and authority, and all measured environmental benefit of such releases.</p> <p>(Sec. 612) Provides Klamath Project contractors with all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants under the ESA consultation process if Reclamation initiates or reinitiates consultation with the USFWS or the NMFS with respect to construction or operation of that project.</p> <p>TITLE VII--WATER SUPPLY PERMITTING ACT</p> <p><i>Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act</i></p> <p> (Sec. 703) Establishes Reclamation as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions (reviews) required under federal law to construct qualifying projects (defined as new surface water storage projects in the states covered under the Act of June 17, 1902, on lands administered by Interior or USDA, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding). </p> <p>Directs Reclamation: (1) upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, to identify any federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a required review; and (2) to notify such agency that it has been designated as a cooperating agency unless the agency notifies Reclamation that the agency has no jurisdiction or authority over the project, has no expertise or information relevant to the project or any associated review, or does not intend to submit comments other than in cooperation with Reclamation. </p> <p>Allows a state in which a qualifying project is being considered to choose to: (1) participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) make subject to the processes of this title all state agencies that have jurisdiction over the project, that are required to conduct or issue a review, or that are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the project. </p> <p>(Sec. 704) Lists as Reclamation's principal responsibilities under this title: (1) to serve as the point of contact for applicants, state agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) to coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) to coordinate all federal agency reviews necessary for the development and construction of qualifying projects. </p> <p>(Sec. 705) Requires each cooperating agency to submit to Reclamation: (1) a time frame for completing the agency's authorizing responsibilities, (2) all environmental review material produced in the course of carrying out activities required under federal law consistent with the project schedule, and (3) all relevant project data.</p> <p>(Sec. 706) Authorizes Interior to accept and expend funds contributed by a nonfederal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. Directs Interior to ensure that all final permit decisions are made available to the public, including on the Internet.</p> <p>TITLE VIII--BUREAU OF RECLAMATION PROJECT STREAMLINING</p> <p><i>Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act</i></p> <p>(Sec. 803) Sets forth provisions governing feasibility studies for water projects initiated by Interior under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (project studies).</p> <p>Requires a project study initiated after enactment of this title to: (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report within three years; (2) have a maximum federal cost of $3 million; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and Reclamation's headquarters levels concurrently conduct the required review. Sets forth factors for extending such time line for complex projects. Requires Interior to notify Congress of any determinations that a project is complex. </p> <p>Requires Interior, within 90 days after the initiation of a project study, to: (1) initiate the process for completing reviews, including environmental reviews, required to be completed as part of such study; (2) convene a meeting of federal, tribal, and state agencies required to act; and (3) provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. </p> <p>Directs Interior to submit to Congress, and make publicly available, information regarding the status of the implementation of this Act and the relevant project studies. Requires: (1) an interim report within 18 months after enactment of this Act, and (2) a final report within four years after enactment of this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 804) Directs Interior to: (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the enactment of this title; and (2) proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of a project that it determines is justified. </p> <p>(Sec. 805) Sets forth requirements applicable to: (1) project studies initiated after enactment of this title for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under NEPA; (2) other project studies initiated before such enactment for which an environmental review process document is prepared under NEPA; and (3) any project study for the development of a nonfederally owned and operated surface water storage project for which Interior determines there is a demonstrable federal interest and that is located in a river basin where other Reclamation water projects are located, that will create additional water supplies that support Reclamation water projects or that will become integrated into the operation of Reclamation water projects. </p> <p>Requires Interior to: </p> <ul> <li>annually prepare a list of all such studies that do not have adequate funding for study completion; </li> <li>develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of such studies; </li> <li>identify early all federal, state, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may have jurisdiction and that may be required to act, which the federal lead agency shall invite to become participating or cooperating agencies; </li> <li>issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process; and </li> <li>establish an electronic database and issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable NEPA requirements and other action required for a project study. </li> </ul> <p>Sets forth the authorities and responsibilities of the joint lead agency, which may be a project sponsor, and the federal lead agency in the environmental review process, including: (1) the preparation and use of environmental documents; (2) establishing a plan for coordinating public and agency participation; (3) working with cooperating and participating agencies to identify and resolve issues that could delay process completion or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study; and (4) establishing, upon request, memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, and state and local governments to carry out the early coordination activities. Requires a federal lead agency to serve in that capacity for the entirety of all nonfederal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated, or administered by Reclamation. Directs Interior, upon determining that a project can be expedited by a nonfederal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable federal interest in expediting the project, to advance it as a nonfederal project. Requires a federal jurisdictional agency to complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis. </p> <p>Provides for a reduction of funds for the office of the head of such an agency that fails to render such a decision by a specified deadline. Requires such funds to be made available (transferred) to the division of the federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than one day after the specified deadline and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered. Directs the agency, within 10 days after the last date in a fiscal year on which funds of the federal jurisdictional agency may be transferred with respect to an individual decision, to provide written notification to Congress regarding the decision, project study, and transfer amounts. </p> <p>Allows Reclamation to establish memoranda of agreement with project sponsors, Indian tribes, and state and local governments to carry out early coordination activities and provide technical assistance.</p> <p>Directs Interior to: (1) survey the use by Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005 and propose a new categorical exclusion for a category of activities if merited, and (2) establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. </p> <p>Requires the Government Accountability Office to submit reports to Congress (within 5 years and within 10 years after enactment of this Act) evaluating the impact of project acceleration measures on project delivery, compliance with environmental laws, and environmental impacts of projects. </p> <p>Sets forth conditions concerning the categorical exclusion treatment of repairs, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of Reclamation surface water storage projects that are in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 806) Requires Interior to develop and submit annually a Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development that identifies: (1) the costs and benefits of, the nonfederal interests associated with, and the support for project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized water projects and project studies that are related to Reclamation's missions and authorities, that require specific congressional authorization, that have not been congressionally authorized, that have not been included in any previous annual report, and that, if authorized, could be carried out by Reclamation; and (2) any project study that was expedited under this title.</p> <p> Specifies surface water storage, rural water supply, wastewater, and groundwater projects to be included in such studies and reports. </p> <p>TITLE IX--ACCELERATED REVENUE, REPAYMENT, AND SURFACE WATER STORAGE ENHANCEMENT</p> <p><i>Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act</i></p> <p>(Sec. 902) Directs Interior to convert certain existing water service contracts between the United States and water users' associations to repayment contracts to allow for prepayment of such contracts, upon the request of the contractor. Specifies the manner of conversion and the terms and conditions of prepayment, subject to exceptions for repayment contracts under which the contractor has previously negotiated for prepayment. </p> <p>Requires a specified percentage of certain receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this title, beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the enactment of this title, to be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account. Requires the Secretary to allocate amounts in such Account to fund the construction of surface water storage for: </p> <ul> <li>increased municipal and industrial water supply; </li> <li>agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction; </li> <li>agricultural drainage improvements; </li> <li>agricultural irrigation; </li> <li>increased recreation opportunities; and </li> <li>reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this Act. </li> </ul> <p>TITLE X--SAFETY OF DAMS</p> <p>(Sec. 1001) Amends the Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 to authorize Interior, subject to a feasibility study, to develop additional project benefits (including additional conservation storage capacity) through the construction of new or supplementary works when it exercises its authority to modify Reclamation dams and related facilities to preserve their structural safety, provided that: (1) the additional project benefits will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities, (2) the feasibility study is authorized under the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965, and (3) the costs are agreed to in writing between Interior and the project proponents and are allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with federal reclamation law. </p> <p>TITLE XI--WATER RIGHTS PROTECTION</p> <p><i>Water Rights Protection Act</i></p> <p>(Sec. 1103) Prohibits Interior and USDA from:</p> <ul> <li> conditioning or withholding the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement (permit) on the limitation or encumbrance of any water right or the transfer of any water right to the United States or any other designee or any other impairment of any water right under state law by federal or state action; </li> <li>requiring any water user (including a federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under state law as a condition of such a permit;</li> <li> asserting jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless consistent with state groundwater resource laws, regulations, and policies; or </li> <li>infringing on the rights and obligations of a state in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating state waters originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the federal government. </li> </ul> <p>(Sec. 1104) Requires Interior and USDA to coordinate with states to ensure that federal actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, state groundwater laws and programs. Prohibits Interior and USDA from taking actions that adversely affect: (1) water rights granted by a state, (2) a state's authority to adjudicate water rights, (3) groundwater withdrawal conditions and conservation measures established by a state, or (4) the use of groundwater in accordance with state law. </p>

tv_txt: I 114th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 2898 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES June 25, 2015 Mr. Valadao (for himself, Mr. McCarthy , Mr. Calvert , Mr. Nunes , Mr. LaMalfa , Mr. Denham , Mr. McClintock , Mr. Joyce , Mr. Diaz-Balart , Mr. Stewart , Mr. Simpson , Mr. Knight , Mr. Cook , Mr. Rodney Davis of Illinois , Mrs. Mimi Walters of California , Mr. Rohrabacher , Mr. Hunter , Mr. Royce , Mr. Issa , Mr. Zinke , Mr. Costa , Mr. Amodei , Mr. Hardy , Mr. Tipton , Mr. Newhouse , and Mrs. Lummis ) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources , and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture , for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned A BILL To provide drought relief in the State of California, and for other purposes.

1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 . (b) Table of contents The table of contents of this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings. Sec. 3. Definitions. Title I—ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE Sec. 101. Definitions. Sec. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science. Sec. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management. Title II—ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE Sec. 201. Definitions. Sec. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science. Sec. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River. Title III—OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF Sec. 301. Definitions. Sec. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought. Sec. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates. Sec. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio. Sec. 305. Emergency environmental reviews. Sec. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations. Sec. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year. Sec. 308. Expediting water transfers. Sec. 309. Additional emergency consultation. Sec. 310. Additional storage at New Melones. Sec. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir. Sec. 312. Applicants. Sec. 313. San Joaquin River settlement. Sec. 314. Program for water rescheduling. Title IV—CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES Sec. 401. Studies. Sec. 402. Temperance Flat. Sec. 403. CALFED storage accountability. Sec. 404. Water storage project construction. Title V—WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS Sec. 501. Protection for State Water Project contractors. Sec. 502. Area of origin protections. Sec. 503. No redirected adverse impacts. Sec. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors. Sec. 505. Effect on existing obligations. Title VI—MISCELLANEOUS Sec. 601. Authorized service area. Sec. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund. Sec. 603. Water supply accounting. Sec. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan. Sec. 605. Natural and artificially spawned species. Sec. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers. Sec. 607. Basin studies. Sec. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division. Sec. 609. Amendment to purposes. Sec. 610. Amendment to definition. Title VII—Water Supply Permitting Act Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Definitions. Sec. 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies. Sec. 704. Bureau responsibilities. Sec. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities. Sec. 706. Funding to process permits. Title VIII—Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Definitions. Sec. 803. Acceleration of studies. Sec. 804. Expedited completion of reports. Sec. 805. Project acceleration. Sec. 806. Annual report to Congress. Title IX—Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Sec. 901. Short title. Sec. 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies. Title X—Safety of Dams Sec. 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits. Title XI—Water Rights Protection Sec. 1101. Short title. Sec. 1102. Definition of water right. Sec. 1103. Treatment of water rights. Sec. 1104. Recognition of State authority. Sec. 1105. Effect of title. 2. Findings Congress finds as follows: (1) As established in the Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by the Governor of the State on January 17, 2014, the State is experiencing record dry conditions. (2) Extremely dry conditions have persisted in the State since 2012, and the drought conditions are likely to persist into the future. (3) The water supplies of the State are at record-low levels, as indicated by the fact that all major Central Valley Project reservoir levels were at 20–35 percent of capacity as of September 25, 2014. (4) The lack of precipitation has been a significant contributing factor to the 6,091 fires experienced in the State as of September 15, 2014, and which covered nearly 400,000 acres. (5) According to a study released by the University of California, Davis in July 2014, the drought has led to the fallowing of 428,000 acres of farmland, loss of $810 million in crop revenue, loss of $203 million in dairy and other livestock value, and increased groundwater pumping costs by $454 million. The statewide economic costs are estimated to be $2.2 billion, with over 17,000 seasonal and part-time agricultural jobs lost. (6) CVPIA Level II water deliveries to refuges have also been reduced by 25 percent in the north of Delta region, and by 35 percent in the south of Delta region. (7) Only one-sixth of the usual acres of rice fields are being flooded this fall, which leads to a significant decline in habitat for migratory birds and an increased risk of disease at the remaining wetlands due to overcrowding of such birds. (8) The drought of 2013 through 2014 constitutes a serious emergency that poses immediate and severe risks to human life and safety and to the environment throughout the State. (9) The serious emergency described in paragraph (4) requires— (A) immediate and credible action that respects the complexity of the water system of the State and the importance of the water system to the entire State; and (B) policies that do not pit stakeholders against one another, which history shows only leads to costly litigation that benefits no one and prevents any real solutions. (10) Data on the difference between water demand and reliable water supplies for various regions of California south of the Delta, including the San Joaquin Valley, indicate there is a significant annual gap between reliable water supplies to meet agricultural, municipal and industrial, groundwater, and refuges water needs within the Delta Division, San Luis Unit and Friant Division of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and the demands of those areas. This gap varies depending on the methodology of the analysis performed, but can be represented in the following ways: (A) For Central Valley Project South-of-Delta water service contractors, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference in the amount of water available for allocation versus the maximum contract quantity, then the water supply deficits that have developed from 1992 to 2014 as a result of legislative and regulatory changes besides natural variations in hydrology during this timeframe range between 720,000 and 1,100,000 acre-feet. (B) For Central Valley Project and State Water Project water service contractors south of the Delta and north of the Tehachapi mountain range, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference between reliable water supplies, including maximum water contract deliveries, safe yield of groundwater, safe yield of local and surface supplies and long-term contracted water transfers, and water demands, including water demands from agriculture, municipal and industrial and refuge contractors, then the water supply deficit ranges between approximately 2,500,000 to 2,700,000 acre-feet. (11) Data of pumping activities at the Central Valley Project and State Water Project delta pumps identifies that, on average from Water Year 2009 to Water Year 2014, take of Delta smelt is 80 percent less than allowable take levels under the biological opinion issued December 15, 2008. (12) Data of field sampling activities of the Interagency Ecological Program located in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Estuary identifies that, on average from 2005 to 2013, the program takes 3,500 delta smelt during annual surveys with an authorized take level of 33,480 delta smelt annually—according to the biological opinion issued December 9, 1997. (13) In 2015, better information exists than was known in 2008 concerning conditions and operations that may or may not lead to high salvage events that jeopardize the fish populations, and what alternative management actions can be taken to avoid jeopardy. (14) Alternative management strategies, removing non-native species, enhancing habitat, monitoring fish movement and location in real-time, and improving water quality in the Delta can contribute significantly to protecting and recovering these endangered fish species, and at potentially lower costs to water supplies. (15) Resolution of fundamental policy questions concerning the extent to which application of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 affects the operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project is the responsibility of Congress. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Delta The term Delta means the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, as defined in sections 12220 and 29101 of the California Public Resources Code. (2) Export pumping rates The term export pumping rates means the rates of pumping at the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant and the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant, in the southern Delta. (3) Listed fish species The term listed fish species means listed salmonid species and the Delta smelt. (4) Listed salmonid species The term listed salmonid species means natural origin steelhead, natural origin genetic spring run Chinook, and genetic winter run Chinook salmon including hatchery steelhead or salmon populations within the evolutionary significant unit (ESU) or distinct population segment (DPS). (5) Negative impact on the long-term survival The term negative impact on the long-term survival means to reduce appreciably the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. (6) OMR The term OMR means the Old and Middle River in the Delta. (7) OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second The term OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second means Old and Middle River flow of negative 5,000 cubic feet per second as described in— (A) the smelt biological opinion; and (B) the salmonid biological opinion. (8) Salmonid biological opinion The term salmonid biological opinion means the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009. (9) Smelt biological opinion The term smelt biological opinion means the biological opinion on the Long-Term Operational Criteria and Plan for coordination of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008. (10) State The term State means the State of California. I ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE 101. Definitions In this title: (1) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (2) Delta smelt The term Delta smelt means the fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science (a) Review and modification Not later than October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Director, in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to complete a review and, modify the method used to calculate the incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion that takes into account all life stages, among other considerations— (1) salvage information collected since at least 1993; (2) updated or more recently developed statistical models; (3) updated scientific and commercial data; and (4) the most recent information regarding the environmental factors affecting Delta smelt salvage. (b) Modified incidental take level Unless the Director determines in writing that one or more of the requirements described in paragraphs (1) through (4) are not appropriate, the modified incidental take level described in subsection (a) shall— (1) be normalized for the abundance of prespawning adult Delta smelt using the Fall Midwater Trawl Index or other index; (2) be based on a simulation of the salvage that would have occurred from 1993 through 2012 if OMR flow has been consistent with the smelt biological opinions; (3) base the simulation on a correlation between annual salvage rates and historic water clarity and OMR flow during the adult salvage period; and (4) set the incidental take level as the 80 percent upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management (a) In general The Director shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to implement, continuously evaluate, and refine or amend, as appropriate, the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the smelt biological opinion, and any successor opinions or court order. The Secretary shall make all significant decisions under the smelt biological opinion, or any successor opinions that affect Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations, in writing, and shall document the significant facts upon which such decisions are made, consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code. (b) Increased Monitoring To Inform Real-Time Operations The Secretary shall conduct additional surveys, on an annual basis at the appropriate time of the year based on environmental conditions, in collaboration with other Delta science interests. (1) In implementing this section, the Secretary shall— (A) use the most accurate survey methods available for the detection of Delta smelt to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity, or other environmental factors that may influence salvage rate; and (B) use results from appropriate survey methods for the detection of Delta smelt to determine how the Central Valley Project and State Water Project may be operated more efficiently to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (2) During the period beginning on December 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, and in each successive December through March period, if suspended sediment loads enter the Delta from the Sacramento River and the suspended sediment loads appear likely to raise turbidity levels in the Old River north of the export pumps from values below 12 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) to values above 12 NTU, the Secretary shall— (A) conduct daily monitoring using appropriate survey methods at locations including, but not limited to, the vicinity of Station 902 to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are moving with turbidity toward the export pumps; and (B) use results from the monitoring surveys referenced in paragraph (A) to determine how increased trawling can inform daily real-time Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (c) Periodic review of monitoring Within 12 months of the date of enactment of this title, and at least once every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall— (1) evaluate whether the monitoring program under subsection (b), combined with other monitoring programs for the Delta, is providing sufficient data to inform Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; and (2) determine whether the monitoring efforts should be changed in the short or long term to provide more useful data. (d) Delta smelt distribution study (1) In general No later than January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Secretary, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Department of Water Resources, public water agencies, and other interested entities, shall implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and the types of habitat occupied by Delta smelt during all life stages. (2) Sampling The Delta smelt distribution study shall, at a minimum— (A) include recording water quality and tidal data; (B) be designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, habitat use, and movement throughout the Delta, Suisun Marsh, and other areas occupied by the Delta smelt during all seasons; (C) consider areas not routinely sampled by existing monitoring programs, including wetland channels, near-shore water, depths below 35 feet, and shallow water; and (D) use survey methods, including sampling gear, best suited to collect the most accurate data for the type of sampling or monitoring. (e) Scientifically supported implementation of old and middle river flow requirements In implementing the provisions of the smelt biological opinion, or any successor biological opinion or court order, pertaining to management of reverse flow in the Old and Middle River, the Secretary shall— (1) consider the relevant provisions of the biological opinion or any successor biological opinion; (2) to maximize Central Valley project and State Water Project water supplies, manage export pumping rates to achieve a reverse flow rate in Old and Middle River of −5,000 cubic feet per second unless information developed by the Secretary under paragraphs (3) and (4) leads the Secretary to reasonably conclude that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. If information available to the Secretary indicates that a reverse flow rate in Old and Middle River more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second can be established without an imminent negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, the Secretary shall manage export pumping rates to achieve that more negative OMR flow rate; (3) document in writing any significant facts about real-time conditions relevant to the determinations of OMR reverse flow rates, including— (A) whether targeted real-time fish monitoring in the Old River pursuant to this section, including monitoring in the vicinity of Station 902, indicates that a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt is imminent; and (B) whether near-term forecasts with available salvage models show under prevailing conditions that OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second or higher will cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; (4) show in writing that any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, including an explanation of the data examined and the connection between those data and the choice made, after considering— (A) the distribution of Delta smelt throughout the Delta; (B) the potential effects of documented, quantified entrainment on subsequent Delta smelt abundance; (C) the water temperature; (D) other significant factors relevant to the determination; and (E) whether any alternative measures could have a substantially lesser water supply impact; and (5) for any subsequent biological opinion, make the showing required in paragraph (4) for any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than the most negative limit in the biological opinion if the most negative limit in the biological opinion is more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second. (f) Memorandum of Understanding No later than December 1, 2015, the Commissioner and the Director will execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. If that MOU alters any procedures set out in the biological opinion, there will be no need to reinitiate consultation if those changes will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and the implementation of the MOU would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Any change to procedures that does not create a significant negative impact on the long-term survival to listed species will not alter application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion under section 7(o)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (g) Calculation of reverse flow in OMR Within 90 days of the enactment of this title, the Secretary is directed, in consultation with the California Department of Water Resources to revise the method used to calculate reverse flow in Old and Middle River for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions, for the purpose of increasing Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies. The method of calculating reverse flow in Old and Middle River shall be reevaluated not less than every five years thereafter to achieve maximum export pumping rates within limits established by the smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions. II ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE 201. Definitions In this title: (1) Assistant administrator The term Assistant Administrator means the Assistant Administrator of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries. (2) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Commerce. (3) Other affected interests The term other affected interests means the State of California, Indian tribes, subdivisions of the State of California, public water agencies and those who benefit directly and indirectly from the operations of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science (a) General directive The reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion allows for and anticipates adjustments in Central Valley Project and State Water Project operation parameters to reflect the best scientific and commercial data currently available, and authorizes efforts to test and evaluate improvements in operations that will meet applicable regulatory requirements and maximize Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies and reliability. Implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion shall be adjusted accordingly as new scientific and commercial data are developed. The Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall fully utilize these authorities as described below. (b) Annual reviews of certain Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations No later than December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter: (1) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments to the initiation of Action IV.2.3 as set forth in the Biological Opinion and Conference Opinion on the Long-Term Operations of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation, issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, pertaining to negative OMR flows, subject to paragraph (5). (2) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments in the timing, triggers or other operational details relating to the implementation of pumping restrictions in Action IV.2.1 pertaining to the inflow to export ratio, subject to paragraph (5). (3) Pursuant to the consultation and assessments carried out under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall jointly make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior and to the Secretary of Commerce on adjustments to project operations that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project and are consistent with the requirements of applicable law and as further described in subsection (c). (4) The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall direct the Commissioner and Assistant Administrator to implement recommended adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations for which the conditions under subsection (c) are met. (5) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall review and identify adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations with water supply restrictions in any successor biological opinion to the salmonid biological opinion, applying the provisions of this section to those water supply restrictions where there are references to Actions IV.2.1 and IV.2.3. (c) Implementation of operational adjustments After reviewing the recommendations under subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce shall direct the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator to implement those operational adjustments, or any combination, for which, in aggregate— (1) the net effect on listed species is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, taking into account both— (A) efforts to minimize the adverse effects of the adjustment to project operations; and (B) whatever additional actions or measures may be implemented in conjunction with the adjustments to operations to offset the adverse effects to listed species, consistent with (d), that are in excess of the adverse effects of the underlying operational parameters, if any; and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be reasonably expected to fall within the incidental take authorizations. (d) Evaluation of offsetting measures When examining and identifying opportunities to offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall take into account the potential species survival improvements that are likely to result from other measures which, if implemented in conjunction with such adjustments, would offset adverse effects, if any, of the adjustments. When evaluating offsetting measures, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall consider the type, timing and nature of the adverse effects, if any, to specific species and ensure that the measures likely provide equivalent overall benefits to the listed species in the aggregate, as long as the change will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (e) Framework for examining opportunities To minimize or offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations Not later than December 31, 2015, and every five years thereafter, the Assistant Administrator shall, in collaboration with the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, based on the best scientific and commercial data available and for each listed salmonid species, issue estimates of the increase in through-Delta survival the Secretary expects to be achieved— (1) through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3 as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (2) through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1 as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (3) through physical habitat restoration improvements; (4) through predation control programs; (5) through the installation of temporary barriers, the management of Cross Channel Gates operations, and other projects affecting flow in the Delta; (6) through salvaging fish that have been entrained near the entrance to Clifton Court Forebay; (7) through any other management measures that may provide equivalent or better protections for listed species while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species; and (8) through development and implementation of conservation hatchery programs for salmon and steelhead to aid in the recovery of listed salmon and steelhead species. (f) Survival estimates (1) To the maximum extent practicable, the Assistant Administrator shall make quantitative estimates of survival such as a range of percentage increases in through-Delta survival that could result from the management measures, and if the scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates, shall do so on qualitative terms based upon the best available science. (2) If the Assistant Administrator provides qualitative survival estimates for a species resulting from one or more management measures, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent feasible, rank the management measures described in subsection (e) in terms of their most likely expected contribution to increased through-Delta survival relative to the other measures. (3) If at the time the Assistant Administrator conducts the reviews under subsection (b), the Secretary has not issued an estimate of increased through-Delta survival from different management measures pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary shall compare the protections to the species from different management measures based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time. (g) Comparison of adverse consequences for alternative management measures of equivalent protection for a species (1) For the purposes of this subsection and subsection (c)— (A) the alternative management measure or combination of alternative management measures identified in paragraph (2) shall be known as the equivalent alternative measure ; (B) the existing measure or measures identified in subparagraphs (2) (A), (B), (C), or (D) shall be known as the equivalent existing measure ; and (C) an equivalent increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species shall mean an increase in through-Delta survival rates that is equivalent when considering the change in through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species in the aggregate, and not the same change for each individual species, as long as the change in survival rates will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) As part of the reviews of project operations pursuant to subsection (b), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether any alternative management measures or combination of alternative management measures listed in subsection (e) (3) through (8) would provide an increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species that is equivalent to the increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species from the following: (A) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable. (B) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.3 that would provide additional water supplies, other than that described in subparagraph (A). (C) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641. (D) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.1 that would reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project, other than that described in subparagraph (C). (3) If the Assistant Administrator identifies an equivalent alternative measure pursuant to paragraph (2), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether— (A) it is technically feasible and within Federal jurisdiction to implement the equivalent alternative measure; (B) the State of California, or subdivision thereof, or local agency with jurisdiction has certified in writing within 10 calendar days to the Assistant Administrator that it has the authority and capability to implement the pertinent equivalent alternative measure; or (C) the adverse consequences of doing so are less than the adverse consequences of the equivalent existing measure, including a concise evaluation of the adverse consequences to other affected interests. (4) If the Assistant Administrator makes the determinations in subparagraph (3)(A) or (3)(B), the Commissioner shall adjust project operations to implement the equivalent alternative measure in place of the equivalent existing measure in order to increase export rates of pumping to the greatest extent possible while maintaining a net combined effect of equivalent through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species. (h) Tracking Adverse Effects Beyond the Range of Effects Accounted for in the Salmonid Biological Opinion and Coordinated Operation with the Delta Smelt Biological Opinion (1) Among the adjustments to the project operations considered through the adaptive management process under this section, the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall— (A) evaluate the effects on listed salmonid species and water supply of the potential adjustment to operational criteria described in subparagraph (B); and (B) consider requiring that before some or all of the provisions of Actions IV.2.1. or IV.2.3 are imposed in any specific instance, the Assistant Administrator show that the implementation of these provisions in that specific instance is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) The Assistant Administrator, the Director, and the Commissioner, in coordination with State officials as appropriate, shall establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions, in order to take advantage of opportunities to provide additional water supplies from the coordinated implementation of the biological opinions. (3) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall document the effects of any adaptive management decisions related to the coordinated operation of the smelt and salmonid biological opinions that prioritizes the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other. (i) Real-Time Monitoring and Management Notwithstanding the calendar based triggers described in the salmonid biological opinion Reasonable and Prudent Alternative (RPA), the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall not limit OMR reverse flow to −5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicate that this OMR flow limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (j) Evaluation and implementation of management measures If the quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established by the Secretary for the adjustments in subsection (b)(2) exceed the through-Delta survival established for the RPAs, the Secretary shall evaluate and implement the management measures in subsection (b)(2) as a prerequisite to implementing the RPAs contained in the Salmonid Biological Opinion. (k) Accordance with other law Consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code, decisions of the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner described in subsections (b) through (j) shall be made in writing, on the basis of best scientific and commercial data currently available, and shall include an explanation of the data examined at the connection between those data and the decisions made. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River (a) Establishment of nonnative predator fish removal program The Secretary and the districts, in consultation with the Director, shall jointly develop and conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. The program shall— (1) be scientifically based; (2) include methods to quantify the number and size of predator fish removed each year, the impact of such removal on the overall abundance of predator fish, and the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish found in the Stanislaus River by, among other things, evaluating the number of juvenile anadromous fish that migrate past the rotary screw trap located at Caswell; (3) among other methods, use wire fyke trapping, portable resistance board weirs, and boat electrofishing; and (4) be implemented as quickly as possible following the issuance of all necessary scientific research. (b) Management The management of the program shall be the joint responsibility of the Secretary and the districts. Such parties shall work collaboratively to ensure the performance of the program, and shall discuss and agree upon, among other things, changes in the structure, management, personnel, techniques, strategy, data collection, reporting, and conduct of the program. (c) Conduct (1) In general By agreement between the Secretary and the districts, the program may be conducted by their own personnel, qualified private contractors hired by the districts, personnel of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, or a combination thereof. (2) Participation by the national marine fisheries service If the districts elect to conduct the program using their own personnel or qualified private contractors hired by them in accordance with paragraph (1), the Secretary may assign an employee of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, to be present for all activities performed in the field. Such presence shall ensure compliance with the agreed-upon elements specified in subsection (b). The districts shall pay the cost of such participation in accordance with subsection (d). (3) Timing of election The districts shall notify the Secretary of their election on or before October 15 of each calendar year of the program. Such an election shall apply to the work performed in the subsequent calendar year. (d) Funding (1) In general The districts shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the program. (2) Contributed funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the districts to carry out activities under the program. (3) Estimation of cost On or before December 1 of each year of the program, the Secretary shall submit to the districts an estimate of the cost to be incurred by the National Marine Fisheries Service for the program in the following calendar year, if any, including the cost of any data collection and posting under subsection (e). If an amount equal to the estimate is not provided through contributions pursuant to paragraph (2) before December 31 of that year— (A) the Secretary shall have no obligation to conduct the program activities otherwise scheduled for such following calendar year until such amount is contributed by the districts; and (B) the districts may not conduct any aspect of the program until such amount is contributed by the districts. (4) Accounting On or before September 1 of each year, the Secretary shall provide to the districts an accounting of the costs incurred by the Secretary for the program in the preceding calendar year. If the amount contributed by the districts pursuant to paragraph (2) for that year was greater than the costs incurred by the Secretary, the Secretary shall— (A) apply the excess contributions to costs of activities to be performed by the Secretary under the program, if any, in the next calendar year; or (B) if no such activities are to be performed, repay the excess contribution to the districts. (e) Posting and evaluation On or before the 15th day of each month, the Secretary shall post on the Internet website of the National Marine Fisheries Service a tabular summary of the raw data collected under the program in the preceding month. (f) Implementation The program is hereby found to be consistent with the requirements of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). No provision, plan or definition established or required by the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) shall be used to prohibit the imposition of the program, or to prevent the accomplishment of its goals. (g) Treatment of striped bass For purposes of the application of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) with respect to the program, striped bass shall not be treated as anadromous fish. (h) Definition For the purposes of this section, the term districts means the Oakdale Irrigation District and the South San Joaquin Irrigation District, California. III OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF 301. Definitions In this title: (1) Central valley project The term Central Valley Project has the meaning given the term in section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4707). (2) Reclamation project The term Reclamation Project means a project constructed pursuant to the authorities of the reclamation laws and whose facilities are wholly or partially located in the State. (3) Secretaries The term Secretaries means— (A) the Secretary of Agriculture; (B) the Secretary of Commerce; and (C) the Secretary of the Interior. (4) State water project The term State Water Project means the water project described by California Water Code section 11550 et seq. and operated by the California Department of Water Resources. (5) State The term State means the State of California. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought (a) Water supplies For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries shall provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or district who receive Central Valley Project water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements entered into prior to or after the date of enactment of this title; State Water Project contractors, and any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in the State, by approving, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations), projects and operations to provide additional water supplies as quickly as practicable based on available information to address the emergency conditions. (b) Administration In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) issue all necessary permit decisions under the authority of the Secretaries not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretaries receive a completed application from the State to place and use temporary barriers or operable gates in Delta channels to improve water quantity and quality for the State Water Project and the Central Valley Project south of Delta water contractors and other water users, on the condition that the barriers or operable gates— (A) do not result in a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of listed species within the Delta and provide benefits or have a neutral impact on in-Delta water user water quality; and (B) are designed so that formal consultations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536 ) are not necessary; (2) require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Commissioner of Reclamation— (A) to complete, not later than 30 days after the date on which the Director or the Commissioner receives a complete written request for water transfer, all requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) necessary to make final permit decisions on the request; and (B) to approve any water transfer request described in subparagraph (A) to maximize the quantity of water supplies available for nonhabitat uses, on the condition that actions associated with the water transfer comply with applicable Federal laws (including regulations); (3) adopt a 1:1 inflow to export ratio, as measured as a 3-day running average at Vernalis during the period beginning on April 1, and ending on May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); provided that the 1:1 inflow to export ratio shall apply for the increment of increased flow of the San Joaquin River resulting from the voluntary sale, transfers, or exchanges of water from agencies with rights to divert water from the San Joaquin River or its tributaries and provided that the movement of the acquired, transferred, or exchanged water through the Delta consistent with the Central Valley Project’s and the State Water Project’s permitted water rights and provided that movement of the Central Valley Project water is consistent with the requirements of section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act; and (4) allow and facilitate, consistent with existing priorities, water transfers through the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 provided water transfers comply with State law, including the California Environmental Quality Act. (c) Accelerated project decision and elevation (1) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries shall use the expedited procedures under this subsection to make final decisions relating to a Federal project or operation, or to local or State projects or operations that require decisions by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Commerce to provide additional water supplies if the project’s or operation’s purpose is to provide relief for emergency drought conditions pursuant to subsections (a) and (b). (2) Request for resolution (A) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries referenced in paragraph (1), or the head of another Federal agency responsible for carrying out a review of a project, as applicable, the Secretary of the Interior shall convene a final project decision meeting with the heads of all relevant Federal agencies to decide whether to approve a project to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. (B) Meeting The Secretary of the Interior shall convene a meeting requested under subparagraph (A) not later than 7 days after the date on which the meeting request is received. (3) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior shall notify the heads of all relevant Federal agencies of the request, including information on the project to be reviewed and the date of the meeting. (4) Decision Not later than 10 days after the date on which a meeting is requested under paragraph (2), the head of the relevant Federal agency shall issue a final decision on the project, subject to subsection (e)(2). (5) Meeting convened by secretary The Secretary of the Interior may convene a final project decision meeting under this subsection at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under paragraph (2). (d) Application To the extent that a Federal agency, other than the agencies headed by the Secretaries, has a role in approving projects described in subsections (a) and (b), this section shall apply to those Federal agencies. (e) Limitation Nothing in this section authorizes the Secretaries to approve projects— (1) that would otherwise require congressional authorization; or (2) without following procedures required by applicable law. (f) Drought Plan For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior, in consultation with appropriate State officials, shall develop a drought operations plan that is consistent with the provisions of this Act including the provisions that are intended to provide additional water supplies that could be of assistance during the current drought. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates (a) In general The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall jointly— (1) authorize and implement activities to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the United States Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of the drought emergency declaration of the State, and for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, consistent with operational criteria and monitoring criteria set forth into the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014 (or a successor order) and other authorizations associated with it; (2) with respect to the operation of the Delta Cross Channel Gates described in paragraph (1), collect data on the impact of that operation on— (A) species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); (B) water quality; and (C) water supply; (3) collaborate with the California Department of Water Resources to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with Delta Cross Channel Gate diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities carried out during 2014 and 2015; (4) evaluate the combined salmonid survival in light of activities carried out pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (3) in deciding how to operate the Delta Cross Channel gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (5) not later than May 15, 2016, submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate a notice and explanation on the extent to which the gates are able to remain open. (b) Recommendations After assessing the information collected under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall recommend revisions to the operation of the Delta Cross-Channel Gates, to the Central Valley Project, and to the State Water Project, including, if appropriate, any reasonable and prudent alternative contained in the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation shall continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to the California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641— (1) to operate to a 35-percent Export/Inflow ratio with a 3-day averaging period on the rising limb of a Delta inflow hydrograph; and (2) to operate to a 14-day averaging period on the falling limb of the Delta inflow hydrograph. 305. Emergency environmental reviews (a) NEPA compliance To minimize the time spent carrying out environmental reviews and to deliver water quickly that is needed to address emergency drought conditions in the State during the duration of an emergency drought declaration, the Secretaries shall, in carrying out this Act, consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) during the emergency. (b) Determinations For the purposes of this section, a Secretary may deem a project to be in compliance with all necessary environmental regulations and reviews if the Secretary determines that the immediate implementation of the project is necessary to address— (1) human health and safety; or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25 percent or more of its tax revenue used to support public services including schools, fire or police services, city or county health facilities, unemployment services or other associated social services. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations The Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) help meet the contract water supply needs of Central Valley Project refuges through the improvement or installation of water conservation measures, water conveyance facilities, and wells to use groundwater resources, on the condition that those activities may only be accomplished by using funding made available under Reclamation programs of the Department of the Interior; (2) make available to individuals or districts who receive water from the United States under water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, water service or repayment contracts the additional water obtained from the activities carried out under subparagraph (1); (3) in coordination with the California Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, implement offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) due to activities carried out pursuant this Act, as determined by the Secretaries; (4) manage reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers at −6,100 cubic feet per second if real-time monitoring indicates that flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second or more negative can be established for specific periods without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, or if real-time monitoring does not support flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second than manage OMR flows at −5,000 cubic feet per second subject to section 103(e) (3) and (4); and (5) use all available scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of the Bureau of Reclamation, State, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year (a) In general Consistent with avoiding a significant negative impact on the long-term survival in the short term upon listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and other environmental protections under subsection (e), the Secretaries shall authorize the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project, combined, to operate at levels that result in negative OMR flows at −7,500 cubic feet per second (based on United States Geological Survey gauges on Old and Middle Rivers) daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1 as described in subsection (c). (b) Days of temporary operational flexibility The temporary operational flexibility described in subsection (a) shall be authorized on days that the California Department of Water Resources determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at, or above, 17,000 cubic feet per second as measured at the Sacramento River at Freeport gauge maintained by the United States Geologic Survey. (c) Compliance with Endangered Species Act authorizations In carrying out this section, the Secretaries may continue to impose any requirements under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions during any period of temporary operational flexibility as they determine are reasonably necessary to avoid an additional significant negative impacts on the long-term survival of a listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, provided that the requirements imposed do not reduce water supplies available for the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (d) Other environmental protections (1) State law The Secretaries’ actions under this section shall be consistent with applicable regulatory requirements under State law. (2) First sediment flush During the first flush of sediment out of the Delta in each water year, and provided that such determination is based upon objective evidence, OMR flow may be managed at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at Central Valley Project and State Water Project pumping plants. (3) Applicability of opinion This section shall not affect the application of the salmonid biological opinion from April 1 to May 31, unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that some or all of such applicable requirements may be adjusted during this time period to provide emergency water supply relief without resulting in additional adverse effects beyond those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In addition to any other actions to benefit water supply, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce shall consider allowing through-Delta water transfers to occur during this period if they can be accomplished consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. Water transfers solely or exclusively through the State Water Project are not required to be consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. (4) Monitoring During operations under this section, the Commissioner of Reclamation, in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, shall undertake a monitoring program and other data gathering to ensure incidental take levels are not exceeded, and to identify potential negative impacts and actions, if any, necessary to mitigate impacts of the temporary operational flexibility to species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531–1544 ). (e) Technical adjustments to target period If, before temporary operational flexibility has been implemented on 56 cumulative days, the Secretaries operate the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project combined at levels that result in OMR flows less negative than −7,500 cubic feet per second during days of temporary operational flexibility as defined in subsection (c), the duration of such operation shall not be counted toward the 56 cumulative days specified in subsection (a). (f) Emergency consultation; effect on running averages (1) If necessary to implement the provisions of this section, the Commissioner is authorized to take any action necessary to implement this section for up to 56 cumulative days. If during the 56 cumulative days the Commissioner determines that actions necessary to implement this section will exceed 56 days, the Commissioner shall use the emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and its implementing regulation at section 402.05 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, to temporarily adjust the operating criteria under the biological opinions— (A) solely for extending beyond the 56 cumulative days for additional days of temporary operational flexibility— (i) no more than necessary to achieve the purposes of this section consistent with the environmental protections in subsections (d) and (e); and (ii) including, as appropriate, adjustments to ensure that the actual flow rates during the periods of temporary operational flexibility do not count toward the 5-day and 14-day running averages of tidally filtered daily OMR flow requirements under the biological opinions, or (B) for other adjustments to operating criteria or to take other urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner. (2) Following the conclusion of the 56 cumulative days of temporary operational flexibility, or the extended number of days covered by the emergency consultation procedures, the Commissioner shall not reinitiate consultation on these adjusted operations, and no mitigation shall be required, if the effects on listed fish species of these operations under this section remain within the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). If the Commissioner reinitiates consultation, no mitigation measures shall be required. (g) Level of detail required for analysis In articulating the determinations required under this section, the Secretaries shall fully satisfy the requirements herein but shall not be expected to provide a greater level of supporting detail for the analysis than feasible to provide within the short timeframe permitted for timely decisionmaking in response to changing conditions in the Delta. 308. Expediting water transfers (a) In general Section 3405(a) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4709(a)) is amended— (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (3) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; (2) in the matter preceding paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in the first sentence, by striking In order to and inserting the following: (1) In general In order to ; and (B) in the second sentence, by striking Except as provided herein and inserting the following: (3) Terms Except as otherwise provided in this section ; (3) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as so designated) the following: (2) Expedited transfer of water The Secretary shall take all necessary actions to facilitate and expedite transfers of Central Valley Project water in accordance with— (A) this Act; (B) any other applicable provision of the reclamation laws; and (C) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). ; (4) in paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking to combination and inserting or combination ; and (B) by striking 3405(a)(2) of this title each place it appears and inserting (5) ; (5) in paragraph (5) (as so designated), by adding at the end the following: (E) The contracting district from which the water is coming, the agency, or the Secretary shall determine if a written transfer proposal is complete within 45 days after the date of submission of the proposal. If the contracting district or agency or the Secretary determines that the proposal is incomplete, the district or agency or the Secretary shall state with specificity what must be added to or revised for the proposal to be complete. ; and (6) in paragraph (6) (as so designated), by striking 3405(a)(1)(A)–(C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of this title and inserting (A) through (C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of paragraph (4) . (b) Conforming amendments The Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) is amended— (1) in section 3407(c)(1) (106 Stat. 4726), by striking 3405(a)(1)(C) and inserting 3405(a)(4)(C) ; and (2) in section 3408(i)(1) (106 Stat. 4729), by striking 3405(a)(1) (A) and (J) of this title and inserting subparagraphs (A) and (J) of section 3405(a)(4) . 309. Additional emergency consultation For adjustments to operating criteria other than under section 308 of this Act or to take urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner, no mitigation measures shall be required during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, and any mitigation measures imposed must be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species. 310. Additional storage at New Melones The Commissioner of Reclamation is directed to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in the Stanislaus River Basin. All such programs and projects shall be implemented according to all applicable laws and regulations. The source of water for any such storage program at New Melones Reservoir shall be made available under a valid water right, consistent with the State of California water transfer guidelines and any other applicable State water law. The Commissioner shall inform the Congress within 18 months setting forth the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under this program, including proposals received by Reclamation from interested parties for the purpose of this section. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir The Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, shall expedite evaluation, completion and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for Central Valley Project American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry-years under current and future demand and climate change conditions. 312. Applicants In the event that the Bureau of Reclamation or another Federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, or any part thereof, the State Water Project contractors and the Central Valley Project contractors will be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. 313. San Joaquin River settlement (a) California State law satisfied by warm water fishery (1) In general Sections 5930 through 5948 of the California Fish and Game Code, and all applicable Federal laws, including the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act ( Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658–LKK/GGH), shall be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford. (2) Definition of warm water fishery For the purposes of this section, the term warm water fishery means a water system that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon (including all subspecies) and trout (including all subspecies). (b) Repeal of the San Joaquin River settlement As of the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall cease any action to implement the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act (subtitle A of title X of Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658 LKK/GGH). 314. Program for water rescheduling By December 31, 2015, the Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, and refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project contracts, from one year to the next; provided, that the program is consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines as utilized by the Bureau of Reclamation for rescheduling water for Central Valley Project water service contractors that are located South of the Delta. IV CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES 401. Studies The Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, shall— (1) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(I) and (ii)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1684) and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2015; (2) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(II) and (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (3) complete the feasibility study described in section 103(f)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1694) and submit such study to the appropriate Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2017; (4) provide a progress report on the status of the feasibility studies referred to in paragraphs (1) through (3) to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and each 180 days thereafter until December 31, 2017, as applicable. The report shall include timelines for study completion, draft environmental impact statements, final environmental impact statements, and Records of Decision; and (5) in conducting any feasibility study under this Act, the reclamation laws, the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act ( 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq. ), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), and other applicable law, for the purposes any determining feasibility the Secretary shall document, delineate, and publish costs directly relating to the engineering and construction of a water storage project separately from the costs resulting from regulatory compliance or the construction of auxiliary facilities necessary to achieve regulatory compliance. 402. Temperance Flat (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section: (1) Project The term Project means the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River. (2) RMP The term RMP means the document titled Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, dated December 2014. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Applicability of RMP The RMP and findings related thereto shall have no effect on or applicability to the Secretary’s determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to— (1) the Project; or (2) actions taken by the Secretary pursuant to section 103(d)(1)(A)(ii)(II) of the Bay-Delta Authorization Act (title I of Public Law 108–361 ). (c) Duties of secretary upon determination of feasibility If the Secretary finds the Project to be feasible, the Secretary shall manage the land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ) in a manner that does not impede any environmental reviews, preconstruction, construction, or other activities of the Project, regardless of whether or not the Secretary submits any official recommendation to Congress under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. (d) Reserved water rights Effective December 22, 2014, there shall be no Federal reserved water rights to any segment of the San Joaquin River related to the Project as a result of any designation made under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ). 403. CALFED storage accountability If the Secretary of the Interior fails to provide the feasibility studies described in section 401 to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate by the times prescribed, the amount made available to the Policy and Administration Account of the Bureau of Reclamation for the operation of the Washington, DC, office shall be reduced by an amount of $20,000 per day and transferred to the Treasury for deficit reduction until the feasibility reports are provided to Congress. 404. Water storage project construction (a) Partnership and agreements The Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, may partner or enter into an agreement on the water storage projects identified in section 103(d)(1) of the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act ( Public Law 108–361 ) (and Acts supplemental and amendatory to the Act) with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to State law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region, to advance those projects. (b) Authorization for project If the Secretary determines a project described in section 402(a)(1) and (2) is feasible, the Secretary is authorized to carry out the project in a manner that is substantially in accordance with the recommended plan, and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided that no Federal funding shall be used to construct the project. V WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS 501. Protection for State Water Project contractors (a) Implementation impacts The Secretary of the Interior shall confer with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in connection with the implementation of this Act on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the State Water Project issued pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1. (b) Additional yield If, as a result of the application of this Act, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife— (1) revokes the consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 that are applicable to the State Water Project; (2) amends or issues one or more new consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion; or (3) requires take authorization under section 2081 for operation of the State Water Project in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and as a consequence of the Department’s action, Central Valley Project yield is greater than it would have been absent the Department’s actions, then that additional yield shall be made available to the State Water Project for delivery to State Water Project contractors to offset losses resulting from the Department’s action. (c) Notification related to environmental protections The Secretary of the Interior shall immediately notify the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in writing if the Secretary of the Interior determines that implementation of the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion consistent with this Act reduces environmental protections for any species covered by the opinions. 502. Area of origin protections (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to adhere to California’s water rights laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the Central Valley Project, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914, as well as water rights and other priorities perfected or to be perfected pursuant to California Water Code Part 2 of Division 2. Article 1.7 (commencing with section 1215 of chapter 1 of part 2 of division 2, sections 10505, 10505.5, 11128, 11460, 11461, 11462, and 11463, and sections 12200 to 12220, inclusive). (b) Diversions Any action undertaken by the Secretaries pursuant to both this Act and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that requires that diversions from the Sacramento River or the San Joaquin River watersheds upstream of the Delta be bypassed shall not be undertaken in a manner that alters the water rights priorities established by California law. (c) Endangered species act Nothing in this title alters the existing authorities provided to and obligations placed upon the Federal Government under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), as amended. (d) Contracts With respect to individuals and entities with water rights on the Sacramento River, the mandates of this section may be met, in whole or in part, through a contract with the Secretary executed pursuant to section 14 of Public Law 76–260 ; 53 Stat. 1187 ( 43 U.S.C. 389 ) that is in conformance with the Sacramento River Settlement Contracts renewed by the Secretary in 2005. 503. No redirected adverse impacts (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that, except as otherwise provided for in a water service or repayment contract, actions taken in compliance with legal obligations imposed pursuant to or as a result of this Act, including such actions under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) and other applicable Federal and State laws, shall not directly or indirectly— (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to individuals or districts who receive water from either the State Water Project or the United States under water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, water service contracts, repayment contracts, or water supply contracts; or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River watershed, the San Joaquin River watershed or the State Water Project service area. (b) Costs To the extent that costs are incurred solely pursuant to or as a result of this Act and would not otherwise have been incurred by any entity or public or local agency or subdivision of the State of California, such costs shall not be borne by any such entity, agency, or subdivision of the State of California, unless such costs are incurred on a voluntary basis. (c) Rights and obligations not modified or amended Nothing in this Act shall modify or amend the rights and obligations of the parties to any existing— (1) water service, repayment, settlement, purchase, or exchange contract with the United States, including the obligation to satisfy exchange contracts and settlement contracts prior to the allocation of any other Central Valley Project water; or (2) State Water Project water supply or settlement contract with the State. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors (a) Allocations (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2) and subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with the following: (A) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Wet year. (B) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in an Above Normal year. (C) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Below Normal year that is preceded by an Above Normal or a Wet year. (D) Not less than 50 percent of their contract quantities in a Dry year that is preceded by a Below Normal, an Above Normal, or a Wet year. (E) In all other years not identified herein, the allocation percentage for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed shall not be less than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors, up to 100 percent; provided, that nothing herein shall preclude an allocation to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed that is greater than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors. (2) Conditions The Secretary’s actions under paragraph (a) shall be subject to— (A) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, including those with Sacramento River Settlement Contracts, that have priority to the diversion and use of Sacramento River water over water rights held by the United States for operations of the Central Valley Project; (B) the United States obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors; and (C) the Secretary’s obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to section 3406(d) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). (b) Protection of municipal and industrial supplies Nothing in subsection (a) shall be deemed to— (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies of the Secretary; (2) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to adopt or modify municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; or (4) affect allocations to Central Valley Project municipal and industrial contractors pursuant to such policies, including the utilization of such allocations as primary water sources for these contractors for purposes of calculating municipal and industrial water shortages. (c) No effect on allocations This section shall not result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. (d) Program for water rescheduling The Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, to provide for the opportunity for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project water service contracts, from one year to the next. (e) Definitions In this section: (1) The term existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed means water service contractors within the Shasta, Trinity, and Sacramento River Divisions of the Central Valley Project, that have a water service contract in effect, on the date of the enactment of this section, that provides water for irrigation. (2) The year type terms used in subsection (a) have the meaning given those year types in the Sacramento Valley Water Year Type (40–30–30) Index. 505. Effect on existing obligations Nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under Federal reclamation law to operate the Central Valley Project in conformity with State law, including established water rights priorities. VI MISCELLANEOUS 601. Authorized service area (a) In general The authorized service area of the Central Valley Project authorized under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) shall include the area within the boundaries of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act. (b) Long-Term contract (1) In general Notwithstanding the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) and subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior, in accordance with the Federal reclamation laws, shall enter into a long-term contract with the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, under terms and conditions mutually agreeable to the parties, for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of Central Valley Project water for municipal and industrial use. (2) Limitation Central Valley Project water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under paragraph (1) shall be limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet the immediate needs of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, in the event that local supplies or State Water Project allocations are insufficient to meet those needs. (c) Permit The Secretary shall apply for a permit with the State for a joint place of use for water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under subsection (b) with respect to the expanded service area under subsection (a), consistent with State law. (d) Additional costs If any additional infrastructure, water treatment, or related costs are needed to implement this section, those costs shall be the responsibility of the non-Federal entity. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund (a) Plan; advisory board Section 3407 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4726) is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) Plan on expenditure of funds (1) In general For each fiscal year, the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. (2) Contents The plan shall include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. (h) Advisory board (1) Establishment There is established the Restoration Fund Advisory Board (referred to in this section as the Advisory Board ), which shall be composed of 11 members appointed by the Secretary. (2) Membership (A) In general The Secretary shall appoint members to the Advisory Board that represent the various Central Valley Project stakeholders, of whom— (i) 4 members shall be agricultural users of the Central Valley Project, including at least one agricultural user from north-of-the-Delta and one agricultural user from south-of-the-Delta; (ii) 2 members shall be municipal and industrial users of the Central Valley Project, including one municipal and industrial user from north-of-the-Delta and one municipal and industrial user from south-of-the-Delta; (iii) 3 members shall be power contractors of the Central Valley Project, including at least one power contractor from north-of-the-Delta and from south-of-the-Delta; (iv) 1 member shall be a representative of a Federal national wildlife refuge that contracts for Central Valley Project water supplies with the Bureau of Reclamation; and (v) 1 member shall have expertise in the economic impacts of the changes to water operations. (B) Observer The Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce may each designate a representative to act as an observer of the Advisory Board. (C) Chairman The Secretary shall appoint 1 of the members described in subparagraph (A) to serve as Chairman of the Advisory Board. (3) Terms The term of each member of the Advisory Board shall be 4 years. (4) Date of appointments The appointment of a member of the Panel shall be made not later than— (A) the date that is 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act; or (B) in the case of a vacancy on the Panel described in subsection (c)(2), the date that is 120 days after the date on which the vacancy occurs. (5) Vacancies (A) In general A vacancy on the Panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and shall be subject to any conditions that applied with respect to the original appointment. (B) Filling unexpired term An individual chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed for the unexpired term of the member replaced. (C) Expiration of terms The term of any member shall not expire before the date on which the successor of the member takes office. (6) Removal A member of the Panel may be removed from office by the Secretary of the Interior. (7) Federal advisory committee act The Panel shall not be subject to the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. (8) Duties The duties of the Advisory Board are— (A) to meet not less frequently than semiannually to develop and make recommendations to the Secretary regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs carried out under this title; (B) to ensure that any advice given or recommendation made by the Advisory Board reflects the independent judgment of the Advisory Board; (C) not later than December 31, 2015, and annually thereafter, to submit to the Secretary and Congress the recommendations under subparagraph (A); and (D) not later than December 31, 2015, and biennially thereafter, to submit to Congress details of the progress made in achieving the actions required under section 3406. (9) Administration With the consent of the appropriate agency head, the Advisory Board may use the facilities and services of any Federal agency. (10) Cooperation and assistance (A) Provision of information Upon request of the Panel Chair for information or assistance to facilitate carrying out this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall promptly provide such information, unless otherwise prohibited by law. (B) Space and assistance The Secretary of the Interior shall provide the Panel with appropriate and adequate office space, together with such equipment, office supplies, and communications facilities and services as may be necessary for the operation of the Panel, and shall provide necessary maintenance services for such offices and the equipment and facilities located therein. . 603. Water supply accounting (a) In general All Central Valley Project water, except Central Valley Project water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated the December 2000 used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by terms and conditions existing in licenses, permits, and other agreements pertaining to the Central Valley Project under applicable State or Federal law existing on October 30, 1992, shall be credited to the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed under this section; provided, that nothing herein shall affect the Secretary of the Interior’s duty to comply with any otherwise lawful requirement imposed on operations of the Central Valley Project under any provision of Federal or State law. (b) Reclamation policies and allocations Reclamation policies and allocations shall not be based upon any premise or assumption that Central Valley Project contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan (a) In general Not later than October 1, 2016, the Secretary of the Interior shall update and implement the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . The Secretary shall provide reports to the Congress annually describing the progress of implementing the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . (b) Failure To update and implement plan If the Secretary fails to update and implement the plan required in subsection (a) within 180 days of enactment of this Act, the amount made available to the Policy and Administration Account of the Bureau of Reclamation for the operation of the Washington, DC, office shall be reduced by an amount of $20,000 per day and transferred to the Treasury for deficit reduction until the feasibility reports are provided to Congress. (c) Potential amendment If the plan required in subsection (a) has not increased the Central Valley Project yield by 800,000 acre-feet within 5 years after the enactment of this Act, then section 3406 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) is amended as follows: (1) In subsection (b)— (A) by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read: (C) If by March 15, 2018, and any year thereafter the quantity of Central Valley Project water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the Central Valley Project is below 50 percent of the total quantity of water to be made available under said contracts, the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed for that year under this paragraph shall be reduced by 25 percent. . 605. Natural and artificially spawned species After the date of the enactment of this title, and regardless of the date of listing, the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce shall not distinguish between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides for all or a portion of its life in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or rivers tributary thereto. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers (a) Definitions For the purposes of this Act, the following terms apply: (1) Interested local water and power providers The term interested local water and power providers includes the Calaveras County Water District, Calaveras Public Power Agency, Central San Joaquin Water Conservation District, Oakdale Irrigation District, Stockton East Water District, South San Joaquin Irrigation District, Tuolumne Utilities District, Tuolumne Public Power Agency, and Union Public Utilities District. (2) New melones unit, central valley project The term New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project means all Federal reclamation projects located within or diverting water from or to the watershed of the Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries as authorized by the Act of August 26, 1937 (50 Stat. 850), and all Acts amendatory or supplemental thereto, including the Act of October 23, 1962 (76 Stat. 1173). (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Negotiations Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into negotiations with interested local water and power providers for the transfer ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers within the State of California. (c) Transfer The Secretary shall transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project in accordance with an agreement reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b). (d) Notification Not later than 360 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate— (1) if an agreement is reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under section 1(b), the terms of that agreement; (2) of the status of formal discussions with interested local water and power providers for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (3) of all unresolved issues that are preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (4) on analysis and review of studies, reports, discussions, hearing transcripts, negotiations, and other information about past and present formal discussions that— (A) have a serious impact on the progress of the formal discussions; (B) explain or provide information about the issues that prevent progress or finalization of formal discussions; or (C) are, in whole or in part, preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer; and (5) of any actions the Secretary recommends that the United States should take to finalize an agreement for that transfer. 607. Basin studies (a) Authorized studies The Secretary is authorized and directed to expand opportunities and expedite completion of assessments under section 9503(b) of the SECURE Water Act, with non-Federal partners, of individual sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins; and shall ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. (b) Funding (1) In general The non-Federal partners shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the special studies. (2) Contributed Funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the non-Federal partners to carry out activities under the special studies. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division The Secretary of the Interior, in the operation of the Trinity River Division of the Central Valley Project, shall not make releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type required by the U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. (1) A maximum of 369,000 acre-feet in a critically dry year. (2) A maximum of 453,000 acre-feet in a dry year. (3) A maximum of 647,000 acre-feet in a normal year. (4) A maximum of 701,000 acre-feet in a wet year. (5) A maximum of 815,000 acre-feet in an extremely wet year. 609. Amendment to purposes Section 3402 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4706) is amended— (1) in subsection (f), by striking the period at the end; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (g) to ensure that water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes by this title is replaced and provided to Central Valley Project water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable; and (h) to facilitate and expedite water transfers in accordance with this Act. . 610. Amendment to definition Section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4707) is amended— (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) the term anadromous fish means those native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that, as of October 30, 1992, were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean; ; (2) in subsection (l), by striking and, ; (3) in subsection (m), by striking the period and inserting ; and ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (n) the term reasonable flow means water flows capable of being maintained taking into account competing consumptive uses of water and economic, environmental, and social factors. . VII Water Supply Permitting Act 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act . 702. Definitions In this title: (1) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (2) Bureau The term Bureau means the Bureau of Reclamation. (3) Qualifying projects The term qualifying projects means new surface water storage projects in the States covered under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) constructed on lands administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding. (4) Cooperating agencies The term cooperating agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations, or a State agency subject to section 703(c). 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies (a) Establishment of Lead Agency The Bureau of Reclamation is established as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions required under Federal law to construct qualifying projects. (b) Identification and Establishment of Cooperating Agencies The Commissioner of the Bureau shall— (1) identify, as early as practicable upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, any Federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, approval, or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations; and (2) notify any such agency, within a reasonable timeframe, that the agency has been designated as a cooperating agency in regards to the qualifying project unless that agency responds to the Bureau in writing, within a timeframe set forth by the Bureau, notifying the Bureau that the agency— (A) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the qualifying project; (B) has no expertise or information relevant to the qualifying project or any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision associated therewith; or (C) does not intend to submit comments on the qualifying project or conduct any review of such a project or make any decision with respect to such project in a manner other than in cooperation with the Bureau. (c) State Authority A State in which a qualifying project is being considered may choose, consistent with State law— (1) to participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) to make subject to the processes of this title all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the qualifying project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, or opinion for the qualifying project; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the qualifying project. 704. Bureau responsibilities (a) In general The principal responsibilities of the Bureau under this title are to— (1) serve as the point of contact for applicants, State agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all Federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of Federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) coordinate all Federal agency reviews necessary for project development and construction of qualifying projects. (b) Coordination process The Bureau shall have the following coordination responsibilities: (1) Pre-application coordination Notify cooperating agencies of proposed qualifying projects not later than 30 days after receipt of a proposal and facilitate a preapplication meeting for prospective applicants, relevant Federal and State agencies, and Indian tribes to— (A) explain applicable processes, data requirements, and applicant submissions necessary to complete the required Federal agency reviews within the timeframe established; and (B) establish the schedule for the qualifying project. (2) Consultation with cooperating agencies Consult with the cooperating agencies throughout the Federal agency review process, identify and obtain relevant data in a timely manner, and set necessary deadlines for cooperating agencies. (3) Schedule Work with the qualifying project applicant and cooperating agencies to establish a project schedule. In establishing the schedule, the Bureau shall consider, among other factors— (A) the responsibilities of cooperating agencies under applicable laws and regulations; (B) the resources available to the cooperating agencies and the non-Federal qualifying project sponsor, as applicable; (C) the overall size and complexity of the qualifying project; (D) the overall schedule for and cost of the qualifying project; and (E) the sensitivity of the natural and historic resources that may be affected by the qualifying project. (4) Environmental compliance Prepare a unified environmental review document for each qualifying project application, incorporating a single environmental record on which all cooperating agencies with authority to issue approvals for a given qualifying project shall base project approval decisions. Help ensure that cooperating agencies make necessary decisions, within their respective authorities, regarding Federal approvals in accordance with the following timelines: (A) Not later than one year after acceptance of a completed project application when an environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact is determined to be the appropriate level of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (B) Not later than one year and 30 days after the close of the public comment period for a draft environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ), when an environmental impact statement is required under the same. (5) Consolidated administrative record Maintain a consolidated administrative record of the information assembled and used by the cooperating agencies as the basis for agency decisions. (6) Project data records To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, ensure that all project data is submitted and maintained in generally accessible electronic format, compile, and where authorized under existing law, make available such project data to cooperating agencies, the qualifying project applicant, and to the public. (7) Project manager Appoint a project manager for each qualifying project. The project manager shall have authority to oversee the project and to facilitate the issuance of the relevant final authorizing documents, and shall be responsible for ensuring fulfillment of all Bureau responsibilities set forth in this section and all cooperating agency responsibilities under section 705. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities (a) Adherence to Bureau Schedule Upon notification of an application for a qualifying project, all cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau a timeframe under which the cooperating agency reasonably considers it will be able to complete its authorizing responsibilities. The Bureau shall use the timeframe submitted under this subsection to establish the project schedule under section 704, and the cooperating agencies shall adhere to the project schedule established by the Bureau. (b) Environmental Record Cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau all environmental review material produced or compiled in the course of carrying out activities required under Federal law consistent with the project schedule established by the Bureau. (c) Data Submission To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, the cooperating agencies shall submit all relevant project data to the Bureau in a generally accessible electronic format subject to the project schedule set forth by the Bureau. 706. Funding to process permits (a) In general The Secretary, after public notice in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act ( 5 U.S.C. 553 ), may accept and expend funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. (b) Effect on permitting (1) In general In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the use of funds accepted under subsection (a) will not impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to permits, either substantively or procedurally. (2) Evaluation of permits In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the evaluation of permits carried out using funds accepted under this section shall— (A) be reviewed by the Regional Director of the Bureau of Reclamation, or the Regional Director’s designee, of the region in which the qualifying project or activity is located; and (B) use the same procedures for decisions that would otherwise be required for the evaluation of permits for similar projects or activities not carried out using funds authorized under this section. (3) Impartial decisionmaking In carrying out this section, the Secretary and the cooperating agencies receiving funds under this section for qualifying projects shall ensure that the use of the funds accepted under this section for such projects shall not— (A) impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to the issuance of permits, either substantively or procedurally; or (B) diminish, modify, or otherwise affect the statutory or regulatory authorities of such agencies. (c) Limitation on use of funds None of the funds accepted under this section shall be used to carry out a review of the evaluation of permits required under subsection (b)(2)(A). (d) Public availability The Secretary shall ensure that all final permit decisions carried out using funds authorized under this section are made available to the public, including on the Internet. VIII Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining 801. Short title This title may be cited as the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act . 802. Definitions In this title: (1) Environmental impact statement The term environmental impact statement means the detailed statement of environmental impacts of a project required to be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (2) Environmental review process (A) In general The term environmental review process means the process of preparing an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for a project study. (B) Inclusions The term environmental review process includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project study under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (3) Federal jurisdictional agency The term Federal jurisdictional agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction delegated by law, regulation, order, or otherwise over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a project study under applicable Federal laws (including regulations). (4) Federal lead agency The term Federal lead agency means the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Project The term project means a surface water project, a project under the purview of title XVI of Public Law 102–575 , or a rural water supply project investigated under Public Law 109–451 to be carried out, funded or operated in whole or in party by the Secretary pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (6) Project sponsor The term project sponsor means a State, regional, or local authority or instrumentality or other qualifying entity, such as a water conservation district, irrigation district, water conservancy district, joint powers authority, mutual water company, canal company, rural water district or association, or any other entity that has the capacity to contract with the United States under Federal reclamation law. (7) Project study The term project study means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (8) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (9) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any surface water reservoir or impoundment that would be owned, funded or operated in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation or that would be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. 803. Acceleration of studies (a) In general To the extent practicable, a project study initiated by the Secretary, after the date of enactment of this Act, under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto, shall— (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report not later than 3 years after the date of initiation; (2) have a maximum Federal cost of $3,000,000; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and headquarters levels of the Bureau of Reclamation concurrently conduct the review required under this section. (b) Extension If the Secretary determines that a project study described in subsection (a) will not be conducted in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary, not later than 30 days after the date of making the determination, shall— (1) prepare an updated project study schedule and cost estimate; (2) notify the non-Federal project cost-sharing partner that the project study has been delayed; and (3) provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the reasons the requirements of subsection (a) are not attainable. (c) Exception (1) In general Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary may extend the timeline of a project study by a period not to exceed 3 years, if the Secretary determines that the project study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a). (2) Factors In making a determination that a study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider— (A) the type, size, location, scope, and overall cost of the project; (B) whether the project will use any innovative design or construction techniques; (C) whether the project will require significant action by other Federal, State, or local agencies; (D) whether there is significant public dispute as to the nature or effects of the project; and (E) whether there is significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project. (3) Notification Each time the Secretary makes a determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the results of that determination, including an identification of the specific one or more factors used in making the determination that the project is complex. (4) Limitation The Secretary shall not extend the timeline for a project study for a period of more than 7 years, and any project study that is not completed before that date shall no longer be authorized. (d) Reviews Not later than 90 days after the date of the initiation of a project study described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall— (1) take all steps necessary to initiate the process for completing federally mandated reviews that the Secretary is required to complete as part of the study, including the environmental review process under section 805; (2) convene a meeting of all Federal, tribal, and State agencies identified under section 805(d) that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study; and (3) take all steps necessary to provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses related to the project to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. (e) Interim report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of the planning process under this section, including the number of participating projects; (2) a review of project delivery schedules, including a description of any delays on those studies initiated prior to the date of the enactment of this Act; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project. (f) Final report Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of this section, including a description of each project study subject to the requirements of this section; (2) the amount of time taken to complete each project study; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project study process, including an analysis of whether the limitation established by subsection (a)(2) needs to be adjusted to address the impacts of inflation. 804. Expedited completion of reports The Secretary shall— (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) if the Secretary determines that the project is justified in a completed report, proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of the project in accordance with the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. 805. Project acceleration (a) Applicability (1) In general This section shall apply to— (A) each project study that is initiated after the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (B) the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other project studies initiated before the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental review process document is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (C) any project study for the development of a non-federally owned and operated surface water storage project for which the Secretary determines there is a demonstrable Federal interest and the project— (i) is located in a river basin where other Bureau of Reclamation water projects are located; (ii) will create additional water supplies that support Bureau of Reclamation water projects; or (iii) will become integrated into the operation of Bureau of Reclamation water projects. (2) Flexibility Any authority granted under this section may be exercised, and any requirement established under this section may be satisfied, for the conduct of an environmental review process for a project study, a class of project studies, or a program of project studies. (3) List of project studies (A) In general The Secretary shall annually prepare, and make publicly available, a list of all project studies that the Secretary has determined— (i) meets the standards described in paragraph (1); and (ii) does not have adequate funding to make substantial progress toward the completion of the project study. (B) Inclusions The Secretary shall include for each project study on the list under subparagraph (A) a description of the estimated amounts necessary to make substantial progress on the project study. (b) Project review process (1) In general The Secretary shall develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of project studies. (2) Coordinated review The coordinated environmental review process described in paragraph (1) shall require that any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision issued or made by a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or an Indian tribe for a project study described in subsection (b) be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, concurrently with any other applicable governmental agency or Indian tribe. (3) Timing The coordinated environmental review process under this subsection shall be completed not later than the date on which the Secretary, in consultation and concurrence with the agencies identified under section 805(d), establishes with respect to the project study. (c) Lead agencies (1) Joint lead agencies (A) In general Subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the requirements of section 1506.8 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), including the concurrence of the proposed joint lead agency, a project sponsor may serve as the joint lead agency. (B) Project sponsor as joint lead agency A project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity may— (i) with the concurrence of the Secretary, serve as a joint lead agency with the Federal lead agency for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) prepare any environmental review process document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if— (I) the Secretary provides guidance in the preparation process and independently evaluates that document; (II) the project sponsor complies with all requirements applicable to the Secretary under— (aa) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (bb) any regulation implementing that Act; and (cc) any other applicable Federal law; and (III) the Secretary approves and adopts the document before the Secretary takes any subsequent action or makes any approval based on that document, regardless of whether the action or approval of the Secretary results in Federal funding. (2) Duties The Secretary shall ensure that— (A) the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection; and (B) any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor is appropriately supplemented to address any changes to the project the Secretary determines are necessary. (3) Adoption and use of documents Any environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection shall be adopted and used by any Federal agency making any determination related to the project study to the same extent that the Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency under— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) parts 1500 through 1508 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations). (4) Roles and responsibility of lead agency With respect to the environmental review process for any project study, the Federal lead agency shall have authority and responsibility— (A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper and within the authority of the Federal lead agency to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project study; and (B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other environmental review document for a project study required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law. (d) Participating and cooperating agencies (1) Identification of jurisdictional agencies With respect to carrying out the environmental review process for a project study, the Secretary shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, all Federal, State, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (2) State authority If the environmental review process is being implemented by the Secretary for a project study within the boundaries of a State, the State, consistent with State law, may choose to participate in the process and to make subject to the process all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (3) Invitation (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall invite, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, any agency identified under paragraph (1) to become a participating or cooperating agency, as applicable, in the environmental review process for the project study. (B) Deadline An invitation to participate issued under subparagraph (A) shall set a deadline by which a response to the invitation shall be submitted, which may be extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (4) Procedures Section 1501.6 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of the Bureau of Reclamation Surface Water Storage Streamlining Act) shall govern the identification and the participation of a cooperating agency. (5) Federal cooperating agencies Any Federal agency that is invited by the Federal lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project study shall be designated as a cooperating agency by the Federal lead agency unless the invited agency informs the Federal lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency— (A) (i) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project; (ii) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; or (iii) does not have adequate funds to participate in the project; and (B) does not intend to submit comments on the project. (6) Administration A participating or cooperating agency shall comply with this section and any schedule established under this section. (7) Effect of designation Designation as a participating or cooperating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating or cooperating agency— (A) supports a proposed project; or (B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project. (8) Concurrent reviews Each participating or cooperating agency shall— (A) carry out the obligations of that agency under other applicable law concurrently and in conjunction with the required environmental review process, unless doing so would prevent the participating or cooperating agency from conducting needed analysis or otherwise carrying out those obligations; and (B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner. (e) Non-Federal projects integrated into reclamation systems The Federal lead agency shall serve in that capacity for the entirety of all non-Federal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. (f) Non-Federal project If the Secretary determines that a project can be expedited by a non-Federal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable Federal interest in expediting that project, the Secretary shall take such actions as are necessary to advance such a project as a non-Federal project, including, but not limited to, entering into agreements with the non-Federal sponsor of such project to support the planning, design and permitting of such project as a non-Federal project. (g) Programmatic compliance (1) In general The Secretary shall issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process that— (A) eliminates repetitive discussions of the same issues; (B) focuses on the actual issues ripe for analyses at each level of review; (C) establishes a formal process for coordinating with participating and cooperating agencies, including the creation of a list of all data that are needed to carry out an environmental review process; and (D) complies with— (i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) all other applicable laws. (2) Requirements In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— (A) as the first step in drafting guidance under that paragraph, consult with relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public on the appropriate use and scope of the programmatic approaches; (B) emphasize the importance of collaboration among relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, and Indian tribes in undertaking programmatic reviews, especially with respect to including reviews with a broad geographical scope; (C) ensure that the programmatic reviews— (i) promote transparency, including of the analyses and data used in the environmental review process, the treatment of any deferred issues raised by Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, or the public, and the temporal and special scales to be used to analyze those issues; (ii) use accurate and timely information in the environmental review process, including— (I) criteria for determining the general duration of the usefulness of the review; and (II) the timeline for updating any out-of-date review; (iii) describe— (I) the relationship between programmatic analysis and future tiered analysis; and (II) the role of the public in the creation of future tiered analysis; and (iv) are available to other relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public; (D) allow not fewer than 60 days of public notice and comment on any proposed guidance; and (E) address any comments received under subparagraph (D). (h) Coordinated reviews (1) Coordination plan (A) Establishment The Federal lead agency shall, after consultation with and with the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in, and comment on, the environmental review process for a project study or a category of project studies. (B) Schedule (i) In general As soon as practicable but not later than 45 days after the close of the public comment period on a draft environmental impact statement, the Federal lead agency, after consultation with and the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, shall establish, as part of the coordination plan established in subparagraph (A), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project study. (ii) Factors for consideration In establishing a schedule, the Secretary shall consider factors such as— (I) the responsibilities of participating and cooperating agencies under applicable laws; (II) the resources available to the project sponsor, joint lead agency, and other relevant Federal and State agencies, as applicable; (III) the overall size and complexity of the project; (IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and (V) the sensitivity of the natural and historical resources that could be affected by the project. (iii) Modifications The Secretary may— (I) lengthen a schedule established under clause (i) for good cause; and (II) shorten a schedule only with concurrence of the affected participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable. (iv) Dissemination A copy of a schedule established under clause (i) shall be— (I) provided to each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable; and (II) made available to the public. (2) Comment deadlines The Federal lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project study: (A) Draft environmental impact statements For comments by Federal and State agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of the draft environmental impact statement, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (B) Other environmental review processes For all other comment periods established by the Federal lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of not more than 30 days after the date on which the materials on which comment is requested are made available, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor, or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws In any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project study, including the issuance or denial of a permit or license, is required to be made by the date described in subsection (i)(5)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate— (A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period described in subsection (i)(5)(B), an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and (B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project study have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice. (4) Involvement of the public Nothing in this subsection reduces any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under applicable Federal law (including regulations). (5) Transparency reporting (A) Reporting requirements Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish and maintain an electronic database and, in coordination with other Federal and State agencies, issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and any other Federal, State, or local approval or action required for a project study for which this section is applicable. (B) Project study transparency Consistent with the requirements established under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall make publicly available the status and progress of any Federal, State, or local decision, action, or approval required under applicable laws for each project study for which this section is applicable. (i) Issue identification and resolution (1) Cooperation The Federal lead agency, the cooperating agencies, and any participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (2) Federal lead agency responsibilities (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall make information available to the cooperating agencies and participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration. (B) Data sources The information under subparagraph (A) may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping. (3) Cooperating and participating agency responsibilities Based on information received from the Federal lead agency, cooperating and participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts of the project, including any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project study. (4) Accelerated issue resolution and elevation (A) In general On the request of a participating or cooperating agency or project sponsor, the Secretary shall convene an issue resolution meeting with the relevant participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, to resolve issues that may— (i) delay completion of the environmental review process; or (ii) result in denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (B) Meeting date A meeting requested under this paragraph shall be held not later than 21 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the request for the meeting, unless the Secretary determines that there is good cause to extend that deadline. (C) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under this paragraph, the Secretary shall notify all relevant participating and cooperating agencies of the request, including the issue to be resolved and the date for the meeting. (D) Elevation of issue resolution If a resolution cannot be achieved within the 30-day period beginning on the date of a meeting under this paragraph and a determination is made by the Secretary that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the Secretary shall forward the dispute to the heads of the relevant agencies for resolution. (E) Convention by secretary The Secretary may convene an issue resolution meeting under this paragraph at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under subparagraph (A). (5) Financial penalty provisions (A) In general A Federal jurisdictional agency shall complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis using the shortest existing applicable process. (B) Failure to decide (i) In general (I) Transfer of funds If a Federal jurisdictional agency fails to render a decision required under any Federal law relating to a project study that requires the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, including the issuance or denial of a permit, license, statement, opinion, or other approval by the date described in clause (ii), the amount of funds made available to support the office of the head of the Federal jurisdictional agency shall be reduced by an amount of funding equal to the amount specified in item (aa) or (bb) of subclause (II), and those funds shall be made available to the division of the Federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than 1 day after the applicable date under clause (ii), and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered, subject to subparagraph (C). (II) Amount to be transferred The amount referred to in subclause (I) is— (aa) $20,000 for any project study requiring the preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement; or (bb) $10,000 for any project study requiring any type of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) other than an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. (ii) Description of date The date referred to in clause (i) is the later of— (I) the date that is 180 days after the date on which an application for the permit, license, or approval is complete; and (II) the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Federal lead agency issues a decision on the project under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (C) Limitations (i) In general No transfer of funds under subparagraph (B) relating to an individual project study shall exceed, in any fiscal year, an amount equal to 1 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office. (ii) Failure to decide The total amount transferred in a fiscal year as a result of a failure by an agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline shall not exceed an amount equal to 5 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office for that fiscal year. (iii) Aggregate Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, the aggregate amount of financial penalties assessed against each applicable agency office under this Act and any other Federal law as a result of a failure of the agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline for environmental review, including the total amount transferred under this paragraph, shall not exceed an amount equal to 9.5 percent of the funds made available for the agency office for that fiscal year. (D) No fault of agency (i) In general A transfer of funds under this paragraph shall not be made if the applicable agency described in subparagraph (A) notifies, with a supporting explanation, the Federal lead agency, cooperating agencies, and project sponsor, as applicable, that— (I) the agency has not received necessary information or approvals from another entity in a manner that affects the ability of the agency to meet any requirements under Federal, State, or local law; (II) significant new information, including from public comments, or circumstances, including a major modification to an aspect of the project, requires additional analysis for the agency to make a decision on the project application; or (III) the agency lacks the financial resources to complete the review under the scheduled timeframe, including a description of the number of full-time employees required to complete the review, the amount of funding required to complete the review, and a justification as to why not enough funding is available to complete the review by the deadline. (ii) Lack of financial resources If the agency provides notice under clause (i)(III), the Inspector General of the agency shall— (I) conduct a financial audit to review the notice; and (II) not later than 90 days after the date on which the review described in subclause (I) is completed, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a notification on the notice. (E) Limitation The Federal agency from which funds are transferred pursuant to this paragraph shall not reprogram funds to the office of the head of the agency, or equivalent office, to reimburse that office for the loss of the funds. (F) Effect of paragraph Nothing in this paragraph affects or limits the application of, or obligation to comply with, any Federal, State, local, or tribal law. (j) Memorandum of agreements for early coordination (1) Sense of congress It is the sense of Congress that— (A) the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process should cooperate with each other, State and local agencies, and Indian tribes on environmental review and Bureau of Reclamation project delivery activities at the earliest practicable time to avoid delays and duplication of effort later in the process, prevent potential conflicts, and ensure that planning and project development decisions reflect environmental values; and (B) the cooperation referred to in subparagraph (A) should include the development of policies and the designation of staff that advise planning agencies and project sponsors of studies or other information foreseeably required for later Federal action and early consultation with appropriate State and local agencies and Indian tribes. (2) Technical assistance If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, shall, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, as determined by the agencies, provide technical assistance to the State or project sponsor in carrying out early coordination activities. (3) Memorandum of agency agreement If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Federal lead agency, in consultation with other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, may establish memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, State and local governments, and other appropriate entities to carry out the early coordination activities, including providing technical assistance in identifying potential impacts and mitigation issues in an integrated fashion. (k) Limitations Nothing in this section preempts or interferes with— (1) any obligation to comply with the provisions of any Federal law, including— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) any other Federal environmental law; (2) the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State; (3) any requirement for seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or (4) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, duty, or authority that a Federal, State, or local governmental agency, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provision of law applicable to projects. (l) Timing of claims (1) Timing (A) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or other approval issued by a Federal agency for a project study shall be barred unless the claim is filed not later than 3 years after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or other approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law that allows judicial review. (B) Applicability Nothing in this subsection creates a right to judicial review or places any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or other approval. (2) New information (A) In general The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations). (B) Separate action The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document, if required under this section, shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of the action shall be 3 years after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing the action relating to such supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document. (m) Categorical exclusions (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) survey the use by the Bureau of Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005; (B) publish a review of the survey that includes a description of— (i) the types of actions that were categorically excluded or could be the basis for developing a new categorical exclusion; and (ii) any requests previously received by the Secretary for new categorical exclusions; and (C) solicit requests from other Federal agencies and project sponsors for new categorical exclusions. (2) New categorical exclusions Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, if the Secretary has identified a category of activities that merit establishing a categorical exclusion that did not exist on the day before the date of enactment this Act based on the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to propose that new categorical exclusion, to the extent that the categorical exclusion meets the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation). (n) Review of project acceleration reforms (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall— (A) assess the reforms carried out under this section; and (B) not later than 5 years and not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the assessment. (2) Contents The reports under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of impacts of the reforms carried out under this section on— (A) project delivery; (B) compliance with environmental laws; and (C) the environmental impact of projects. (o) Performance measurement The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. (p) Categorical exclusions in emergencies For the repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of a Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project that is in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. ), the Secretary shall treat such repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation activity as a class of action categorically excluded from the requirements relating to environmental assessments or environmental impact statements under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), if the repair or reconstruction activity is— (1) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, and design as the original Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project as before the declaration described in this section; and (2) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described in this subsection. 806. Annual report to Congress (a) In general Not later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate an annual report, to be entitled Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development , that identifies the following: (1) Project reports Each project report that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (2) Proposed project studies Any proposed project study submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b) that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (3) Proposed modifications Any proposed modification to an authorized water project or project study that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A) that— (A) is submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b); or (B) is identified by the Secretary for authorization. (4) Expedited completion of report and determinations Any project study that was expedited and any Secretarial determinations under section 804. (b) Requests for proposals (1) Publication Not later than May 1 of each year, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice requesting proposals from non-Federal interests for proposed project studies and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies to be included in the annual report. (2) Deadline for requests The Secretary shall include in each notice required by this subsection a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in paragraph (1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of the notice in the Federal Register in order for the proposals to be considered for inclusion in the annual report. (3) Notification On the date of publication of each notice required by this subsection, the Secretary shall— (A) make the notice publicly available, including on the Internet; and (B) provide written notification of the publication to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate. (c) Contents (1) Project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications (A) Criteria for inclusion in report The Secretary shall include in the annual report only those project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies that— (i) are related to the missions and authorities of the Bureau of Reclamation; (ii) require specific congressional authorization, including by an Act of Congress; (iii) have not been congressionally authorized; (iv) have not been included in any previous annual report; and (v) if authorized, could be carried out by the Bureau of Reclamation. (B) Description of benefits (i) Description The Secretary shall describe in the annual report, to the extent applicable and practicable, for each proposed project study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or project study included in the annual report, the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each such study or proposed modification. (ii) Benefits The benefits (or expected benefits, in the case of a proposed project study) described in this clause are benefits to— (I) the protection of human life and property; (II) improvement to domestic irrigated water and power supplies; (III) the national economy; (IV) the environment; or (V) the national security interests of the United States. (C) Identification of other factors The Secretary shall identify in the annual report, to the extent practicable— (i) for each proposed project study included in the annual report, the non-Federal interest that submitted the proposed project study pursuant to subsection (b); and (ii) for each proposed project study and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report, whether the non-Federal interest has demonstrated— (I) that local support exists for the proposed project study or proposed modification to an authorized project or project study (including the surface water storage development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized project study); and (II) the financial ability to provide the required non-Federal cost share. (2) Transparency The Secretary shall include in the annual report, for each project report, proposed project study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included under paragraph (1)(A)— (A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of— (i) the project report; (ii) the proposed project study; (iii) the authorized project study for which the modification is proposed; or (iv) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the water report; (bb) the proposed project study; or (cc) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed; or (II) the proposed modification to a project; (B) a letter or statement of support for the water report, proposed project study, or proposed modification to a project or project study from each associated non-Federal interest; (C) the purpose of the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to a project or project study; (D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of— (i) the proposed modification to an authorized project study; and (ii) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the project report; or (bb) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the change in costs resulting from such modification; or (II) the proposed modification to an authorized project; and (E) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of— (i) the project that is the subject of— (I) the project report; or (II) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the benefits of such modification; or (ii) the proposed modification to an authorized project. (3) Certification The Secretary shall include in the annual report a certification stating that each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report meets the criteria established in paragraph (1)(A). (4) Appendix The Secretary shall include in the annual report an appendix listing the proposals submitted under subsection (b) that were not included in the annual report under paragraph (1)(A) and a description of why the Secretary determined that those proposals did not meet the criteria for inclusion under such paragraph. (d) Special rule for initial annual report Notwithstanding any other deadlines required by this section, the Secretary shall— (1) not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, publish in the Federal Register a notice required by subsection (b)(1); and (2) include in such notice a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of such notice in the Federal Register in order for such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the first annual report developed by the Secretary under this section. (e) Publication Upon submission of an annual report to Congress, the Secretary shall make the annual report publicly available, including through publication on the Internet. (f) Definition In this section, the term project report means a final feasibility report developed under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. IX Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement 901. Short title This title may be cited as the Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act . 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies (a) Conversion and prepayment of contracts (1) Conversion Upon request of the contractor, the Secretary of the Interior shall convert any water service contract in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and between the United States and a water users’ association to allow for prepayment of the repayment contract pursuant to paragraph (2) under mutually agreeable terms and conditions. The manner of conversion under this paragraph shall be as follows: (A) Water service contracts that were entered into under section 9(e) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1196), to be converted under this section shall be converted to repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (B) Water service contracts that were entered under subsection (c)(2) of section 9 of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1194), to be converted under this section shall be converted to a contract under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (2) Prepayment All repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(A) shall— (A) upon request of the contractor, provide for the repayment, either in lump sum or by accelerated prepayment, of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific irrigation rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payment not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor, or if made in approximately equal installments, no later than 3 years after the effective date of the repayment contract; such amount to be discounted by ½ the Treasury rate. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days following receipt of request of the contractor; (B) require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law; (C) provide that power revenues will not be available to aid in repayment of construction costs allocated to irrigation under the contract; and (D) continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(d) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (3) Contract requirements The following shall apply with regard to all repayment contracts under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B): (A) Upon request of the contractor, provide for the repayment in lump sum of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific municipal and industrial rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payments not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days after receipt of request of contractor. (B) The contract shall require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor, shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law. (C) Continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(c)(1) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (4) Conditions All contracts entered into pursuant to paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) shall— (A) not be adjusted on the basis of the type of prepayment financing used by the water users’ association; (B) conform to any other agreements, such as applicable settlement agreements and new constructed appurtenant facilities; and (C) not modify other water service, repayment, exchange and transfer contractual rights between the water users’ association, and the Bureau of Reclamation, or any rights, obligations, or relationships of the water users’ association and their landowners as provided under State law. (b) Accounting The amounts paid pursuant to subsection (a) shall be subject to adjustment following a final cost allocation by the Secretary of the Interior. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are greater than what has been paid by the contractor, the contractor shall be obligated to pay the remaining allocated costs. The term of such additional repayment contract shall be not less than one year and not more than 10 years, however, mutually agreeable provisions regarding the rate of repayment of such amount may be developed by the parties. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are less than what the contractor has paid, the Secretary shall credit such overpayment as an offset against any outstanding or future obligation of the contractor. (c) Applicability of certain provisions (1) Effect of existing law Upon a contractor’s compliance with and discharge of the obligation of repayment of the construction costs pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A), subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) shall apply to affected lands. (2) Effect of other obligations The obligation of a contractor to repay construction costs or other capitalized costs described in subsection (a)(2)(B), (a)(3)(B), or (b) shall not affect a contractor’s status as having repaid all of the construction costs assignable to the contractor or the applicability of subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) once the amount required to be paid by the contractor under the repayment contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A) have been paid. (d) Effect on existing law not altered Implementation of the provisions of this title shall not alter— (1) the repayment obligation of any water service or repayment contractor receiving water from the same water project, or shift any costs that would otherwise have been properly assignable to the water users’ association identified in subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(3) absent this section, including operation and maintenance costs, construction costs, or other capitalized costs incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act, or to other contractors; and (2) specific requirements for the disposition of amounts received as repayments by the Secretary under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (e) Surface water storage enhancement program (1) In general Except as provided in subsection (d)(2), three years following the date of enactment of this Act, no less than __ percent of receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this section beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the date of enactment of this Act shall be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account under paragraph (2). (2) Surface storage account The Secretary shall allocate amounts collected under paragraph (1) into the Reclamation Surface Storage Account to fund the construction of surface water storage. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative agreements with water users’ associations for the construction of surface water storage and amounts within the Surface Storage Account may be used to fund such construction. Surface water storage projects that are otherwise not federally authorized shall not be considered Federal facilities as a result of any amounts allocated from the Surface Storage Account for part or all of such facilities. (3) Repayment Amounts used for surface water storage construction from the Account shall be fully reimbursed to the Account consistent with the requirements under Federal reclamation law (the law (the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093))), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) except that all funds reimbursed shall be deposited in the Account established under paragraph (1). (4) Availability of amounts Amounts deposited in the Account under this subsection shall— (A) be made available in accordance with this section, subject to appropriation; and (B) be in addition to amounts appropriated for such purposes under any other provision of law. (5) Purposes of surface water storage Construction of surface water storage under this section shall be made for the following purposes: (A) Increased municipal and industrial water supply. (B) Agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction. (C) Agricultural drainage improvements. (D) Agricultural irrigation. (E) Increased recreation opportunities. (F) Reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this section. (G) Any other purposes consistent with reclamation laws or other Federal law. (f) Definitions For the purposes of this title, the following definitions apply: (1) Account The term Account means the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account established under subsection (e)(2). (2) Construction The term construction means the designing, materials engineering and testing, surveying, and building of surface water storage including additions to existing surface water storage and construction of new surface water storage facilities, exclusive of any Federal statutory or regulatory obligations relating to any permit, review, approval, or other such requirement. (3) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any federally owned facility under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation or any non-Federal facility used for the surface storage and supply of water resources. (4) Treasury rate The term Treasury rate means the 20-year Constant Maturity Treasury (CMT) rate published by the United States Department of the Treasury existing on the effective date of the contract. (5) Water users’ association The term water users’ association means— (A) an entity organized and recognized under State laws that is eligible to enter into contracts with reclamation to receive contract water for delivery to and users of the water and to pay applicable charges; and (B) includes a variety of entities with different names and differing functions, such as associations, conservatory district, irrigation district, municipality, and water project contract unit. X Safety of Dams 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits The Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 is amended— (1) in section 3, by striking Construction and inserting Except as provided in section 5B, construction ; and (2) by inserting after section 5A ( 43 U.S.C. 509 ) the following: 5B. Authorization of additional project benefits Notwithstanding section 3, if the Secretary determines that additional project benefits, including but not limited to additional conservation storage capacity, are feasible and not inconsistent with the purposes of this Act, the Secretary is authorized to develop additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project in conjunction with the Secretary’s activities under section 2 of this Act and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided— (1) the Secretary determines that developing additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities; (2) the feasibility study pertaining to additional project benefits has been authorized pursuant to section 8 of the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965 ( 16 U.S.C. 4601–18 ); and (3) the costs associated with developing the additional project benefits are allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with all provisions of Federal Reclamation law (the Act of June 17, 1902, 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act. . XI Water Rights Protection 1101. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Rights Protection Act . 1102. Definition of water right In this title, the term water right means any surface or groundwater right filed, permitted, certified, confirmed, decreed, adjudicated, or otherwise recognized by a judicial proceeding or by the State in which the user acquires possession of the water or puts the water to beneficial use, including water rights for federally recognized Indian tribes. 1103. Treatment of water rights The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not— (1) condition or withhold, in whole or in part, the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on— (A) limitation or encumbrance of any water right, or the transfer of any water right (including joint and sole ownership), directly or indirectly to the United States or any other designee; or (B) any other impairment of any water right, in whole or in part, granted or otherwise recognized under State law, by Federal or State adjudication, decree, or other judgment, or pursuant to any interstate water compact; (2) require any water user (including any federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under State law as a condition of the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement; (3) assert jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless jurisdiction is asserted, and any regulatory or policy actions taken pursuant to such assertion are, consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, applicable State laws (including regulations) and policies governing the protection and use of groundwater resources; or (4) infringe on the rights and obligations of a State in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating the waters of the State originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the Federal Government. 1104. Recognition of State authority (a) In general In carrying out section 3, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall— (1) recognize the longstanding authority of the States relating to evaluating, protecting, allocating, regulating, and adjudicating groundwater by any means, including a rulemaking, permitting, directive, water court adjudication, resource management planning, regional authority, or other policy; and (2) coordinate with the States in the adoption and implementation by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture of any rulemaking, policy, directive, management plan, or other similar Federal action so as to ensure that such actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, State groundwater laws and programs. (b) Effect on state water rights In carrying out this Act, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not take any action that adversely affects— (1) any water rights granted by a State; (2) the authority of a State in adjudicating water rights; (3) definitions established by a State with respect to the term beneficial use , priority of water rights , or terms of use ; (4) terms and conditions of groundwater withdrawal, guidance and reporting procedures, and conservation and source protection measures established by a State; (5) the use of groundwater in accordance with State law; or (6) any other rights and obligations of a State established under State law. 1105. Effect of title (a) Effect on existing authority Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing legally recognized authority of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to issue, grant, or condition any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on Federal land subject to the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, respectively. (b) Effect on reclamation contracts Nothing in this title interferes with Bureau of Reclamation contracts entered into pursuant to the reclamation laws. (c) Effect on endangered species act Nothing in this title affects the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (d) Effect on federal reserved water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing or claimed reserved water rights of the Federal Government on land administered by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture. (e) Effect on federal power act Nothing in this title limits or expands authorities under sections 4(e), 10(j), or 18 of the Federal Power Act ( 16 U.S.C. 797(e) , 803(j), 811). (f) Effect on Indian water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any water right or treaty right of any federally recognized Indian tribe.

tv_txt: I 114th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 2898 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AN ACT To provide drought relief in the State of California, and for other purposes.

1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 . (b) Table of contents The table of contents of this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings. Sec. 3. Definitions. Title I—ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE Sec. 101. Definitions. Sec. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science. Sec. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management. Title II—ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE Sec. 201. Definitions. Sec. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science. Sec. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River. Sec. 204. Pilot projects to implement CALFED invasive species program. Title III—OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF Sec. 301. Definitions. Sec. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought. Sec. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates. Sec. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio. Sec. 305. Emergency environmental reviews. Sec. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations. Sec. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year. Sec. 308. Expediting water transfers. Sec. 309. Additional emergency consultation. Sec. 310. Additional storage at New Melones. Sec. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir. Sec. 312. Applicants. Sec. 313. San Joaquin River settlement. Sec. 314. Program for water rescheduling. Title IV—CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES Sec. 401. Studies. Sec. 402. Temperance Flat. Sec. 403. CALFED storage accountability. Sec. 404. Water storage project construction. Title V—WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS Sec. 501. Offset for State Water Project. Sec. 502. Area of origin protections. Sec. 503. No redirected adverse impacts. Sec. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors. Sec. 505. Effect on existing obligations. Title VI—MISCELLANEOUS Sec. 601. Authorized service area. Sec. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund. Sec. 603. Water supply accounting. Sec. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan. Sec. 605. Natural and artificially spawned species. Sec. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers. Sec. 607. Basin studies. Sec. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division. Sec. 609. Amendment to purposes. Sec. 610. Amendment to definition. Sec. 611. Report on results of water usage. Sec. 612. Klamath project consultation applicants. Title VII—Water Supply Permitting Act Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Definitions. Sec. 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies. Sec. 704. Bureau responsibilities. Sec. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities. Sec. 706. Funding to process permits. Title VIII—Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Definitions. Sec. 803. Acceleration of studies. Sec. 804. Expedited completion of reports. Sec. 805. Project acceleration. Sec. 806. Annual report to Congress. Title IX—Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Sec. 901. Short title. Sec. 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies. Title X—Safety of Dams Sec. 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits. Title XI—Water Rights Protection Sec. 1101. Short title. Sec. 1102. Definition of water right. Sec. 1103. Treatment of water rights. Sec. 1104. Recognition of State authority. Sec. 1105. Effect of title. 2. Findings Congress finds as follows: (1) As established in the Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by the Governor of the State on January 17, 2014, the State is experiencing record dry conditions. (2) Extremely dry conditions have persisted in the State since 2012, and the drought conditions are likely to persist into the future. (3) The water supplies of the State are at record-low levels, as indicated by the fact that all major Central Valley Project reservoir levels were at 20–35 percent of capacity as of September 25, 2014. (4) The lack of precipitation has been a significant contributing factor to the 6,091 fires experienced in the State as of September 15, 2014, and which covered nearly 400,000 acres. (5) According to a study released by the University of California, Davis in July 2014, the drought has led to the fallowing of 428,000 acres of farmland, loss of $810 million in crop revenue, loss of $203 million in dairy and other livestock value, and increased groundwater pumping costs by $454 million. The statewide economic costs are estimated to be $2.2 billion, with over 17,000 seasonal and part-time agricultural jobs lost. (6) CVPIA Level II water deliveries to refuges have also been reduced by 25 percent in the north of Delta region, and by 35 percent in the south of Delta region. (7) Only one-sixth of the usual acres of rice fields are being flooded this fall, which leads to a significant decline in habitat for migratory birds and an increased risk of disease at the remaining wetlands due to overcrowding of such birds. (8) The drought of 2013 through 2014 constitutes a serious emergency that poses immediate and severe risks to human life and safety and to the environment throughout the State. (9) The serious emergency described in paragraph (4) requires— (A) immediate and credible action that respects the complexity of the water system of the State and the importance of the water system to the entire State; and (B) policies that do not pit stakeholders against one another, which history shows only leads to costly litigation that benefits no one and prevents any real solutions. (10) Data on the difference between water demand and reliable water supplies for various regions of California south of the Delta, including the San Joaquin Valley, indicate there is a significant annual gap between reliable water supplies to meet agricultural, municipal and industrial, groundwater, and refuges water needs within the Delta Division, San Luis Unit and Friant Division of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and the demands of those areas. This gap varies depending on the methodology of the analysis performed, but can be represented in the following ways: (A) For Central Valley Project South-of-Delta water service contractors, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference in the amount of water available for allocation versus the maximum contract quantity, then the water supply deficits that have developed from 1992 to 2014 as a result of legislative and regulatory changes besides natural variations in hydrology during this timeframe range between 720,000 and 1,100,000 acre-feet. (B) For Central Valley Project and State Water Project water service contractors south of the Delta and north of the Tehachapi mountain range, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference between reliable water supplies, including maximum water contract deliveries, safe yield of groundwater, safe yield of local and surface supplies and long-term contracted water transfers, and water demands, including water demands from agriculture, municipal and industrial and refuge contractors, then the water supply deficit ranges between approximately 2,500,000 to 2,700,000 acre-feet. (11) Data of pumping activities at the Central Valley Project and State Water Project delta pumps identifies that, on average from Water Year 2009 to Water Year 2014, take of Delta smelt is 80 percent less than allowable take levels under the biological opinion issued December 15, 2008. (12) Data of field sampling activities of the Interagency Ecological Program located in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Estuary identifies that, on average from 2005 to 2013, the program takes 3,500 delta smelt during annual surveys with an authorized take level of 33,480 delta smelt annually—according to the biological opinion issued December 9, 1997. (13) In 2015, better information exists than was known in 2008 concerning conditions and operations that may or may not lead to high salvage events that jeopardize the fish populations, and what alternative management actions can be taken to avoid jeopardy. (14) Alternative management strategies, removing non-native species, enhancing habitat, monitoring fish movement and location in real-time, and improving water quality in the Delta can contribute significantly to protecting and recovering these endangered fish species, and at potentially lower costs to water supplies. (15) Resolution of fundamental policy questions concerning the extent to which application of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 affects the operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project is the responsibility of Congress. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Delta The term Delta means the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, as defined in sections 12220 and 29101 of the California Public Resources Code. (2) Export pumping rates The term export pumping rates means the rates of pumping at the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant and the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant, in the southern Delta. (3) Listed fish species The term listed fish species means listed salmonid species and the Delta smelt. (4) Listed salmonid species The term listed salmonid species means natural origin steelhead, natural origin genetic spring run Chinook, and genetic winter run Chinook salmon including hatchery steelhead or salmon populations within the evolutionary significant unit (ESU) or distinct population segment (DPS). (5) Negative impact on the long-term survival The term negative impact on the long-term survival means to reduce appreciably the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. (6) OMR The term OMR means the Old and Middle River in the Delta. (7) OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second The term OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second means Old and Middle River flow of negative 5,000 cubic feet per second as described in— (A) the smelt biological opinion; and (B) the salmonid biological opinion. (8) Salmonid biological opinion The term salmonid biological opinion means the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009. (9) Smelt biological opinion The term smelt biological opinion means the biological opinion on the Long-Term Operational Criteria and Plan for coordination of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008. (10) State The term State means the State of California. I ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE 101. Definitions In this title: (1) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (2) Delta smelt The term Delta smelt means the fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science (a) Review and modification Not later than October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Director, in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to complete a review and, modify the method used to calculate the incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion that takes into account all life stages, among other considerations— (1) salvage information collected since at least 1993; (2) updated or more recently developed statistical models; (3) updated scientific and commercial data; and (4) the most recent information regarding the environmental factors affecting Delta smelt salvage. (b) Modified incidental take level Unless the Director determines in writing that one or more of the requirements described in paragraphs (1) through (4) are not appropriate, the modified incidental take level described in subsection (a) shall— (1) be normalized for the abundance of prespawning adult Delta smelt using the Fall Midwater Trawl Index or other index; (2) be based on a simulation of the salvage that would have occurred from 1993 through 2012 if OMR flow has been consistent with the smelt biological opinions; (3) base the simulation on a correlation between annual salvage rates and historic water clarity and OMR flow during the adult salvage period; and (4) set the incidental take level as the 80 percent upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management (a) In general The Director shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to implement, continuously evaluate, and refine or amend, as appropriate, the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the smelt biological opinion, and any successor opinions or court order. The Secretary shall make all significant decisions under the smelt biological opinion, or any successor opinions that affect Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations, in writing, and shall document the significant facts upon which such decisions are made, consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code. (b) Increased Monitoring To Inform Real-Time Operations The Secretary shall conduct additional surveys, on an annual basis at the appropriate time of the year based on environmental conditions, in collaboration with other Delta science interests. (1) In implementing this section, the Secretary shall— (A) use the most accurate survey methods available for the detection of Delta smelt to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity, or other environmental factors that may influence salvage rate; and (B) use results from appropriate survey methods for the detection of Delta smelt to determine how the Central Valley Project and State Water Project may be operated more efficiently to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (2) During the period beginning on December 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, and in each successive December through March period, if suspended sediment loads enter the Delta from the Sacramento River and the suspended sediment loads appear likely to raise turbidity levels in the Old River north of the export pumps from values below 12 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) to values above 12 NTU, the Secretary shall— (A) conduct daily monitoring using appropriate survey methods at locations including, but not limited to, the vicinity of Station 902 to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are moving with turbidity toward the export pumps; and (B) use results from the monitoring surveys referenced in paragraph (A) to determine how increased trawling can inform daily real-time Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (c) Periodic review of monitoring Within 12 months of the date of enactment of this title, and at least once every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall— (1) evaluate whether the monitoring program under subsection (b), combined with other monitoring programs for the Delta, is providing sufficient data to inform Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; and (2) determine whether the monitoring efforts should be changed in the short or long term to provide more useful data. (d) Delta smelt distribution study (1) In general No later than January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Secretary, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Department of Water Resources, public water agencies, and other interested entities, shall implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and the types of habitat occupied by Delta smelt during all life stages. (2) Sampling The Delta smelt distribution study shall, at a minimum— (A) include recording water quality and tidal data; (B) be designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, habitat use, and movement throughout the Delta, Suisun Marsh, and other areas occupied by the Delta smelt during all seasons; (C) consider areas not routinely sampled by existing monitoring programs, including wetland channels, near-shore water, depths below 35 feet, and shallow water; and (D) use survey methods, including sampling gear, best suited to collect the most accurate data for the type of sampling or monitoring. (e) Scientifically supported implementation of OMR flow requirements In implementing the provisions of the smelt biological opinion, or any successor biological opinion or court order, pertaining to management of reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers, the Secretary shall— (1) consider the relevant provisions of the biological opinion or any successor biological opinion; (2) to maximize Central Valley project and State Water Project water supplies, manage export pumping rates to achieve a reverse OMR flow rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second unless information developed by the Secretary under paragraphs (3) and (4) leads the Secretary to reasonably conclude that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. If information available to the Secretary indicates that a reverse OMR flow rate more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second can be established without an imminent negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, the Secretary shall manage export pumping rates to achieve that more negative OMR flow rate; (3) document in writing any significant facts about real-time conditions relevant to the determinations of OMR reverse flow rates, including— (A) whether targeted real-time fish monitoring in the Old River pursuant to this section, including monitoring in the vicinity of Station 902, indicates that a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt is imminent; and (B) whether near-term forecasts with available salvage models show under prevailing conditions that OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second or higher will cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; (4) show in writing that any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, including an explanation of the data examined and the connection between those data and the choice made, after considering— (A) the distribution of Delta smelt throughout the Delta; (B) the potential effects of documented, quantified entrainment on subsequent Delta smelt abundance; (C) the water temperature; (D) other significant factors relevant to the determination; and (E) whether any alternative measures could have a substantially lesser water supply impact; and (5) for any subsequent biological opinion, make the showing required in paragraph (4) for any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than the most negative limit in the biological opinion if the most negative limit in the biological opinion is more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second. (f) Memorandum of Understanding No later than December 1, 2015, the Commissioner and the Director will execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. If that MOU alters any procedures set out in the biological opinion, there will be no need to reinitiate consultation if those changes will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and the implementation of the MOU would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Any change to procedures that does not create a significant negative impact on the long-term survival to listed species will not alter application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion under section 7(o)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (g) Calculation of reverse flow in OMR Within 90 days of the enactment of this title, the Secretary is directed, in consultation with the California Department of Water Resources to revise the method used to calculate reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions, for the purpose of increasing Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies. The method of calculating reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers shall be reevaluated not less than every five years thereafter to achieve maximum export pumping rates within limits established by the smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions. II ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE 201. Definitions In this title: (1) Assistant administrator The term Assistant Administrator means the Assistant Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries. (2) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Commerce. (3) Other affected interests The term other affected interests means the State of California, Indian tribes, subdivisions of the State of California, public water agencies and those who benefit directly and indirectly from the operations of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science (a) General directive The reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion allows for and anticipates adjustments in Central Valley Project and State Water Project operation parameters to reflect the best scientific and commercial data currently available, and authorizes efforts to test and evaluate improvements in operations that will meet applicable regulatory requirements and maximize Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies and reliability. Implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion shall be adjusted accordingly as new scientific and commercial data are developed. The Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall fully utilize these authorities as described below. (b) Annual reviews of certain Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations No later than December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter: (1) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments to the initiation of Action IV.2.3 as set forth in the Biological Opinion and Conference Opinion on the Long-Term Operations of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation, issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, pertaining to negative OMR flows, subject to paragraph (5). (2) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments in the timing, triggers or other operational details relating to the implementation of pumping restrictions in Action IV.2.1 pertaining to the inflow to export ratio, subject to paragraph (5). (3) Pursuant to the consultation and assessments carried out under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall jointly make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior and to the Secretary on adjustments to project operations that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project and are consistent with the requirements of applicable law and as further described in subsection (c). (4) The Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall direct the Commissioner and Assistant Administrator to implement recommended adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations for which the conditions under subsection (c) are met. (5) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall review and identify adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations with water supply restrictions in any successor biological opinion to the salmonid biological opinion, applying the provisions of this section to those water supply restrictions where there are references to Actions IV.2.1 and IV.2.3. (c) Implementation of operational adjustments After reviewing the recommendations under subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary shall direct the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator to implement those operational adjustments, or any combination, for which, in aggregate— (1) the net effect on listed species is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, taking into account both— (A) efforts to minimize the adverse effects of the adjustment to project operations; and (B) whatever additional actions or measures may be implemented in conjunction with the adjustments to operations to offset the adverse effects to listed species, consistent with (d), that are in excess of the adverse effects of the underlying operational parameters, if any; and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be reasonably expected to fall within the incidental take authorizations. (d) Evaluation of offsetting measures When examining and identifying opportunities to offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall take into account the potential species survival improvements that are likely to result from other measures which, if implemented in conjunction with such adjustments, would offset adverse effects, if any, of the adjustments. When evaluating offsetting measures, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall consider the type, timing and nature of the adverse effects, if any, to specific species and ensure that the measures likely provide equivalent overall benefits to the listed species in the aggregate, as long as the change will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (e) Framework for examining opportunities To minimize or offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations Not later than December 31, 2015, and every five years thereafter, the Assistant Administrator shall, in collaboration with the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, based on the best scientific and commercial data available and for each listed salmonid species, issue estimates of the increase in through-Delta survival the Secretary expects to be achieved— (1) through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3 as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (2) through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1 as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (3) through physical habitat restoration improvements; (4) through predation control programs; (5) through the installation of temporary barriers, the management of Cross Channel Gates operations, and other projects affecting flow in the Delta; (6) through salvaging fish that have been entrained near the entrance to Clifton Court Forebay; (7) through any other management measures that may provide equivalent or better protections for listed species while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species; and (8) through development and implementation of conservation hatchery programs for salmon and steelhead to aid in the recovery of listed salmon and steelhead species. (f) Survival estimates (1) To the maximum extent practicable, the Assistant Administrator shall make quantitative estimates of survival such as a range of percentage increases in through-Delta survival that could result from the management measures, and if the scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates, shall do so on qualitative terms based upon the best available science. (2) If the Assistant Administrator provides qualitative survival estimates for a species resulting from one or more management measures, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent feasible, rank the management measures described in subsection (e) in terms of their most likely expected contribution to increased through-Delta survival relative to the other measures. (3) If at the time the Assistant Administrator conducts the reviews under subsection (b), the Secretary has not issued an estimate of increased through-Delta survival from different management measures pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary shall compare the protections to the species from different management measures based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time. (g) Comparison of adverse consequences for alternative management measures of equivalent protection for a species (1) For the purposes of this subsection and subsection (c)— (A) the alternative management measure or combination of alternative management measures identified in paragraph (2) shall be known as the equivalent alternative measure ; (B) the existing measure or measures identified in subparagraphs (2) (A), (B), (C), or (D) shall be known as the equivalent existing measure ; and (C) an equivalent increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species shall mean an increase in through-Delta survival rates that is equivalent when considering the change in through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species in the aggregate, and not the same change for each individual species, as long as the change in survival rates will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) As part of the reviews of project operations pursuant to subsection (b), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether any alternative management measures or combination of alternative management measures listed in subsection (e) (3) through (8) would provide an increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species that is equivalent to the increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species from the following: (A) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable. (B) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.3 that would provide additional water supplies, other than that described in subparagraph (A). (C) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641. (D) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.1 that would reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project, other than that described in subparagraph (C). (3) If the Assistant Administrator identifies an equivalent alternative measure pursuant to paragraph (2), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether— (A) it is technically feasible and within Federal jurisdiction to implement the equivalent alternative measure; (B) the State of California, or subdivision thereof, or local agency with jurisdiction has certified in writing within 10 calendar days to the Assistant Administrator that it has the authority and capability to implement the pertinent equivalent alternative measure; or (C) the adverse consequences of doing so are less than the adverse consequences of the equivalent existing measure, including a concise evaluation of the adverse consequences to other affected interests. (4) If the Assistant Administrator makes the determinations in subparagraph (3)(A) or (3)(B), the Commissioner shall adjust project operations to implement the equivalent alternative measure in place of the equivalent existing measure in order to increase export rates of pumping to the greatest extent possible while maintaining a net combined effect of equivalent through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species. (h) Tracking Adverse Effects Beyond the Range of Effects Accounted for in the Salmonid Biological Opinion and Coordinated Operation with the Delta Smelt Biological Opinion (1) Among the adjustments to the project operations considered through the adaptive management process under this section, the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall— (A) evaluate the effects on listed salmonid species and water supply of the potential adjustment to operational criteria described in subparagraph (B); and (B) consider requiring that before some or all of the provisions of Actions IV.2.1. or IV.2.3 are imposed in any specific instance, the Assistant Administrator show that the implementation of these provisions in that specific instance is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) The Assistant Administrator, the Director, and the Commissioner, in coordination with State officials as appropriate, shall establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions, in order to take advantage of opportunities to provide additional water supplies from the coordinated implementation of the biological opinions. (3) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall document the effects of any adaptive management decisions related to the coordinated operation of the smelt and salmonid biological opinions that prioritizes the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other. (i) Real-Time Monitoring and Management Notwithstanding the calendar based triggers described in the salmonid biological opinion Reasonable and Prudent Alternative (RPA), the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall not limit OMR reverse flow to −5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicate that this OMR flow limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (j) Evaluation and implementation of management measures If the quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established by the Secretary for the adjustments in subsection (b)(2) exceed the through-Delta survival established for the RPAs, the Secretary shall evaluate and implement the management measures in subsection (b)(2) as a prerequisite to implementing the RPAs contained in the Salmonid Biological Opinion. (k) Accordance with other law Consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code, decisions of the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner described in subsections (b) through (j) shall be made in writing, on the basis of best scientific and commercial data currently available, and shall include an explanation of the data examined at the connection between those data and the decisions made. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River (a) Establishment of nonnative predator fish removal program The Secretary and the districts, in consultation with the Director, shall jointly develop and conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. The program shall— (1) be scientifically based; (2) include methods to quantify the number and size of predator fish removed each year, the impact of such removal on the overall abundance of predator fish, and the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish found in the Stanislaus River by, among other things, evaluating the number of juvenile anadromous fish that migrate past the rotary screw trap located at Caswell; (3) among other methods, use wire fyke trapping, portable resistance board weirs, and boat electrofishing; and (4) be implemented as quickly as possible following the issuance of all necessary scientific research. (b) Management The management of the program shall be the joint responsibility of the Secretary and the districts. Such parties shall work collaboratively to ensure the performance of the program, and shall discuss and agree upon, among other things, changes in the structure, management, personnel, techniques, strategy, data collection, reporting, and conduct of the program. (c) Conduct (1) In general By agreement between the Secretary and the districts, the program may be conducted by their own personnel, qualified private contractors hired by the districts, personnel of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, or a combination thereof. (2) Participation by the national marine fisheries service If the districts elect to conduct the program using their own personnel or qualified private contractors hired by them in accordance with paragraph (1), the Secretary may assign an employee of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, to be present for all activities performed in the field. Such presence shall ensure compliance with the agreed-upon elements specified in subsection (b). The districts shall pay the cost of such participation in accordance with subsection (d). (3) Timing of election The districts shall notify the Secretary of their election on or before October 15 of each calendar year of the program. Such an election shall apply to the work performed in the subsequent calendar year. (d) Funding (1) In general The districts shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the program. (2) Contributed funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the districts to carry out activities under the program. (3) Estimation of cost On or before December 1 of each year of the program, the Secretary shall submit to the districts an estimate of the cost to be incurred by the National Marine Fisheries Service for the program in the following calendar year, if any, including the cost of any data collection and posting under subsection (e). If an amount equal to the estimate is not provided through contributions pursuant to paragraph (2) before December 31 of that year— (A) the Secretary shall have no obligation to conduct the program activities otherwise scheduled for such following calendar year until such amount is contributed by the districts; and (B) the districts may not conduct any aspect of the program until such amount is contributed by the districts. (4) Accounting On or before September 1 of each year, the Secretary shall provide to the districts an accounting of the costs incurred by the Secretary for the program in the preceding calendar year. If the amount contributed by the districts pursuant to paragraph (2) for that year was greater than the costs incurred by the Secretary, the Secretary shall— (A) apply the excess contributions to costs of activities to be performed by the Secretary under the program, if any, in the next calendar year; or (B) if no such activities are to be performed, repay the excess contribution to the districts. (e) Posting and evaluation On or before the 15th day of each month, the Secretary shall post on the Internet website of the National Marine Fisheries Service a tabular summary of the raw data collected under the program in the preceding month. (f) Implementation The program is hereby found to be consistent with the requirements of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). No provision, plan or definition established or required by the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) shall be used to prohibit the imposition of the program, or to prevent the accomplishment of its goals. (g) Treatment of striped bass For purposes of the application of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) with respect to the program, striped bass shall not be treated as anadromous fish. (h) Definition For the purposes of this section, the term districts means the Oakdale Irrigation District and the South San Joaquin Irrigation District, California. 204. Pilot projects to implement CALFED invasive species program (a) In general Not later than January 1, 2017, the Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Secretary of Commerce, the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and other relevant agencies and interested parties, shall begin pilot projects to implement the invasive species control program authorized pursuant to section 103(d)(6)(A)(iv) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1690). (b) Requirements The pilot projects shall— (1) seek to reduce invasive aquatic vegetation, predators, and other competitors which contribute to the decline of native listed pelagic and anadromous species that occupy the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta; and (2) remove, reduce, or control the effects of species, including Asiatic clams, silversides, gobies, Brazilian water weed, water hyacinth, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, white and channel catfish, and brown bullheads. (c) Sunset The authorities provided under this subsection shall expire seven years after the Secretaries commence implementation of the pilot projects pursuant to subsection (a). (d) Emergency environmental reviews To expedite the environmentally beneficial programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species, the Secretaries shall consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for the projects pursuant to subsection (a). III OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF 301. Definitions In this title: (1) Central valley project The term Central Valley Project has the meaning given the term in section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4707). (2) Reclamation project The term Reclamation Project means a project constructed pursuant to the authorities of the reclamation laws and whose facilities are wholly or partially located in the State. (3) Secretaries The term Secretaries means— (A) the Secretary of Agriculture; (B) the Secretary of Commerce; and (C) the Secretary of the Interior. (4) State water project The term State Water Project means the water project described by California Water Code section 11550 et seq. and operated by the California Department of Water Resources. (5) State The term State means the State of California. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought (a) Water supplies For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries shall provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or district who receive Central Valley Project water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements entered into prior to or after the date of enactment of this title; State Water Project contractors, and any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in the State, by approving, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations), projects and operations to provide additional water supplies as quickly as practicable based on available information to address the emergency conditions. (b) Administration In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) issue all necessary permit decisions under the authority of the Secretaries not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretaries receive a completed application from the State to place and use temporary barriers or operable gates in Delta channels to improve water quantity and quality for the State Water Project and the Central Valley Project south of Delta water contractors and other water users, on the condition that the barriers or operable gates— (A) do not result in a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of listed species within the Delta and provide benefits or have a neutral impact on in-Delta water user water quality; and (B) are designed so that formal consultations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536 ) are not necessary; (2) require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Commissioner of Reclamation— (A) to complete, not later than 30 days after the date on which the Director or the Commissioner receives a complete written request for water transfer, all requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) necessary to make final permit decisions on the request; and (B) to approve any water transfer request described in subparagraph (A) to maximize the quantity of water supplies available for nonhabitat uses, on the condition that actions associated with the water transfer comply with applicable Federal laws (including regulations); (3) adopt a 1:1 inflow to export ratio, as measured as a 3-day running average at Vernalis during the period beginning on April 1, and ending on May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); provided that the 1:1 inflow to export ratio shall apply for the increment of increased flow of the San Joaquin River resulting from the voluntary sale, transfers, or exchanges of water from agencies with rights to divert water from the San Joaquin River or its tributaries and provided that the movement of the acquired, transferred, or exchanged water through the Delta consistent with the Central Valley Project’s and the State Water Project’s permitted water rights and provided that movement of the Central Valley Project water is consistent with the requirements of section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act; and (4) allow and facilitate, consistent with existing priorities, water transfers through the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 provided water transfers comply with State law, including the California Environmental Quality Act. (c) Accelerated project decision and elevation (1) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries shall use the expedited procedures under this subsection to make final decisions relating to a Federal project or operation, or to local or State projects or operations that require decisions by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Commerce to provide additional water supplies if the project’s or operation’s purpose is to provide relief for emergency drought conditions pursuant to subsections (a) and (b). (2) Request for resolution (A) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries referenced in paragraph (1), or the head of another Federal agency responsible for carrying out a review of a project, as applicable, the Secretary of the Interior shall convene a final project decision meeting with the heads of all relevant Federal agencies to decide whether to approve a project to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. (B) Meeting The Secretary of the Interior shall convene a meeting requested under subparagraph (A) not later than 7 days after the date on which the meeting request is received. (3) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior shall notify the heads of all relevant Federal agencies of the request, including information on the project to be reviewed and the date of the meeting. (4) Decision Not later than 10 days after the date on which a meeting is requested under paragraph (2), the head of the relevant Federal agency shall issue a final decision on the project, subject to subsection (e)(2). (5) Meeting convened by secretary The Secretary of the Interior may convene a final project decision meeting under this subsection at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under paragraph (2). (d) Application To the extent that a Federal agency, other than the agencies headed by the Secretaries, has a role in approving projects described in subsections (a) and (b), this section shall apply to those Federal agencies. (e) Limitation Nothing in this section authorizes the Secretaries to approve projects— (1) that would otherwise require congressional authorization; or (2) without following procedures required by applicable law. (f) Drought Plan For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior, in consultation with appropriate State officials, shall develop a drought operations plan that is consistent with the provisions of this Act including the provisions that are intended to provide additional water supplies that could be of assistance during the current drought. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates (a) In general The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall jointly— (1) authorize and implement activities to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the United States Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of the drought emergency declaration of the State, and for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, consistent with operational criteria and monitoring criteria set forth into the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014 (or a successor order) and other authorizations associated with it; (2) with respect to the operation of the Delta Cross Channel Gates described in paragraph (1), collect data on the impact of that operation on— (A) species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); (B) water quality; and (C) water supply; (3) collaborate with the California Department of Water Resources to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with Delta Cross Channel Gate diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities carried out during 2014 and 2015; (4) evaluate the combined salmonid survival in light of activities carried out pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (3) in deciding how to operate the Delta Cross Channel gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (5) not later than May 15, 2016, submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate a notice and explanation on the extent to which the gates are able to remain open. (b) Recommendations After assessing the information collected under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall recommend revisions to the operation of the Delta Cross-Channel Gates, to the Central Valley Project, and to the State Water Project, including, if appropriate, any reasonable and prudent alternative contained in the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation shall continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to the California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641— (1) to operate to a 35-percent Export/Inflow ratio with a 3-day averaging period on the rising limb of a Delta inflow hydrograph; and (2) to operate to a 14-day averaging period on the falling limb of the Delta inflow hydrograph. 305. Emergency environmental reviews (a) NEPA compliance To minimize the time spent carrying out environmental reviews and to deliver water quickly that is needed to address emergency drought conditions in the State during the duration of an emergency drought declaration, the Secretaries shall, in carrying out this Act, consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) during the emergency. (b) Determinations For the purposes of this section, a Secretary may deem a project to be in compliance with all necessary environmental regulations and reviews if the Secretary determines that the immediate implementation of the project is necessary to address— (1) human health and safety; or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25 percent or more of its tax revenue used to support public services including schools, fire or police services, city or county health facilities, unemployment services or other associated social services. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations The Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) in coordination with the California Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, implement offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) due to activities carried out pursuant this Act, as determined by the Secretaries; (2) manage reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers at −6,100 cubic feet per second if real-time monitoring indicates that flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second or more negative can be established for specific periods without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, or if real-time monitoring does not support flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second than manage OMR flows at −5,000 cubic feet per second subject to section 103(e) (3) and (4); and (3) use all available scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of the Bureau of Reclamation, State, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year (a) In general Consistent with avoiding a significant negative impact on the long-term survival in the short term upon listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and other environmental protections under subsection (e), the Secretaries shall authorize the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project, combined, to operate at levels that result in negative OMR flows at −7,500 cubic feet per second (based on United States Geological Survey gauges on Old and Middle Rivers) daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1 as described in subsection (c). (b) Days of temporary operational flexibility The temporary operational flexibility described in subsection (a) shall be authorized on days that the California Department of Water Resources determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at, or above, 17,000 cubic feet per second as measured at the Sacramento River at Freeport gauge maintained by the United States Geologic Survey. (c) Compliance with Endangered Species Act authorizations In carrying out this section, the Secretaries may continue to impose any requirements under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions during any period of temporary operational flexibility as they determine are reasonably necessary to avoid an additional significant negative impacts on the long-term survival of a listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, provided that the requirements imposed do not reduce water supplies available for the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (d) Other environmental protections (1) State law The Secretaries’ actions under this section shall be consistent with applicable regulatory requirements under State law. (2) First sediment flush During the first flush of sediment out of the Delta in each water year, and provided that such determination is based upon objective evidence, OMR flow may be managed at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at Central Valley Project and State Water Project pumping plants. (3) Applicability of opinion This section shall not affect the application of the salmonid biological opinion from April 1 to May 31, unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that some or all of such applicable requirements may be adjusted during this time period to provide emergency water supply relief without resulting in additional adverse effects beyond those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In addition to any other actions to benefit water supply, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce shall consider allowing through-Delta water transfers to occur during this period if they can be accomplished consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. Water transfers solely or exclusively through the State Water Project are not required to be consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. (4) Monitoring During operations under this section, the Commissioner of Reclamation, in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, shall undertake a monitoring program and other data gathering to ensure incidental take levels are not exceeded, and to identify potential negative impacts and actions, if any, necessary to mitigate impacts of the temporary operational flexibility to species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (e) Technical adjustments to target period If, before temporary operational flexibility has been implemented on 56 cumulative days, the Secretaries operate the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project combined at levels that result in OMR flows less negative than −7,500 cubic feet per second during days of temporary operational flexibility as defined in subsection (c), the duration of such operation shall not be counted toward the 56 cumulative days specified in subsection (a). (f) Emergency consultation; effect on running averages (1) If necessary to implement the provisions of this section, the Commissioner is authorized to take any action necessary to implement this section for up to 56 cumulative days. If during the 56 cumulative days the Commissioner determines that actions necessary to implement this section will exceed 56 days, the Commissioner shall use the emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and its implementing regulation at section 402.05 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, to temporarily adjust the operating criteria under the biological opinions— (A) solely for extending beyond the 56 cumulative days for additional days of temporary operational flexibility— (i) no more than necessary to achieve the purposes of this section consistent with the environmental protections in subsections (d) and (e); and (ii) including, as appropriate, adjustments to ensure that the actual flow rates during the periods of temporary operational flexibility do not count toward the 5-day and 14-day running averages of tidally filtered daily OMR flow requirements under the biological opinions, or (B) for other adjustments to operating criteria or to take other urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner. (2) Following the conclusion of the 56 cumulative days of temporary operational flexibility, or the extended number of days covered by the emergency consultation procedures, the Commissioner shall not reinitiate consultation on these adjusted operations, and no mitigation shall be required, if the effects on listed fish species of these operations under this section remain within the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). If the Commissioner reinitiates consultation, no mitigation measures shall be required. (g) Level of detail required for analysis In articulating the determinations required under this section, the Secretaries shall fully satisfy the requirements herein but shall not be expected to provide a greater level of supporting detail for the analysis than feasible to provide within the short timeframe permitted for timely decisionmaking in response to changing conditions in the Delta. 308. Expediting water transfers (a) In general Section 3405(a) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4709(a)) is amended— (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (3) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; (2) in the matter preceding paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in the first sentence, by striking In order to and inserting the following: (1) In general In order to ; and (B) in the second sentence, by striking Except as provided herein and inserting the following: (3) Terms Except as otherwise provided in this section ; (3) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as so designated) the following: (2) Expedited transfer of water The Secretary shall take all necessary actions to facilitate and expedite transfers of Central Valley Project water in accordance with— (A) this Act; (B) any other applicable provision of the reclamation laws; and (C) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). ; (4) in paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking to combination and inserting or combination ; and (B) by striking 3405(a)(2) of this title each place it appears and inserting (5) ; (5) in paragraph (5) (as so designated), by adding at the end the following: (E) The contracting district from which the water is coming, the agency, or the Secretary shall determine if a written transfer proposal is complete within 45 days after the date of submission of the proposal. If the contracting district or agency or the Secretary determines that the proposal is incomplete, the district or agency or the Secretary shall state with specificity what must be added to or revised for the proposal to be complete. ; and (6) in paragraph (6) (as so designated), by striking 3405(a)(1)(A)–(C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of this title and inserting (A) through (C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of paragraph (4) . (b) Conforming amendments The Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) is amended— (1) in section 3407(c)(1) (106 Stat. 4726), by striking 3405(a)(1)(C) and inserting 3405(a)(4)(C) ; and (2) in section 3408(i)(1) (106 Stat. 4729), by striking 3405(a)(1) (A) and (J) of this title and inserting subparagraphs (A) and (J) of section 3405(a)(4) . 309. Additional emergency consultation For adjustments to operating criteria other than under section 308 of this Act or to take urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner of Reclamation, no mitigation measures shall be required during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, and any mitigation measures imposed must be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species. 310. Additional storage at New Melones The Commissioner of Reclamation is directed to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in the Stanislaus River Basin. All such programs and projects shall be implemented according to all applicable laws and regulations. The source of water for any such storage program at New Melones Reservoir shall be made available under a valid water right, consistent with the State of California water transfer guidelines and any other applicable State water law. The Commissioner shall inform the Congress within 18 months setting forth the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under this program, including proposals received by the Commissioner from interested parties for the purpose of this section. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir The Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, shall expedite evaluation, completion and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for Central Valley Project American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry-years under current and future demand and climate change conditions. 312. Applicants In the event that the Bureau of Reclamation or another Federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, or any part thereof, the State Water Project contractors and the Central Valley Project contractors will be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. 313. San Joaquin River settlement (a) California State law satisfied by warm water fishery (1) In general Sections 5930 through 5948 of the California Fish and Game Code, and all applicable Federal laws, including the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act ( Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658–LKK/GGH), shall be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford. (2) Definition of warm water fishery For the purposes of this section, the term warm water fishery means a water system that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon (including all subspecies) and trout (including all subspecies). (b) Repeal of the San Joaquin River settlement As of the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall cease any action to implement the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act (subtitle A of title X of Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658 LKK/GGH). 314. Program for water rescheduling By December 31, 2015, the Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, and refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project contracts, from one year to the next; provided, that the program is consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines as utilized by the Bureau of Reclamation for rescheduling water for Central Valley Project water service contractors that are located South of the Delta. IV CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES 401. Studies The Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, shall— (1) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(I) and (ii)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1684) and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2015; (2) complete the feasibility study described in clause (i)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (3) complete a publicly available draft of the feasibility study described in clause (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (4) complete the feasibility study described in clause (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2017; (5) complete the feasibility study described in section 103(f)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1694) and submit such study to the appropriate Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2017; (6) provide a progress report on the status of the feasibility studies referred to in paragraphs (1) through (3) to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and each 180 days thereafter until December 31, 2017, as applicable. The report shall include timelines for study completion, draft environmental impact statements, final environmental impact statements, and Records of Decision; (7) in conducting any feasibility study under this Act, the reclamation laws, the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act ( 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq. ), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), and other applicable law, for the purposes of determining feasibility the Secretary shall document, delineate, and publish costs directly relating to the engineering and construction of a water storage project separately from the costs resulting from regulatory compliance or the construction of auxiliary facilities necessary to achieve regulatory compliance; and (8) communicate, coordinate and cooperate with public water agencies that contract with the United States for Central Valley Project water and that are expected to participate in the cost pools that will be created for the projects proposed in the feasibility studies under this section. 402. Temperance Flat (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section: (1) Project The term Project means the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River. (2) RMP The term RMP means the document titled Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, dated December 2014. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Applicability of RMP The RMP and findings related thereto shall have no effect on or applicability to the Secretary’s determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to— (1) the Project; or (2) actions taken by the Secretary pursuant to section 103(d)(1)(A)(ii)(II) of the Bay-Delta Authorization Act (title I of Public Law 108–361 ). (c) Duties of secretary upon determination of feasibility If the Secretary finds the Project to be feasible, the Secretary shall manage the land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ) in a manner that does not impede any environmental reviews, preconstruction, construction, or other activities of the Project, regardless of whether or not the Secretary submits any official recommendation to Congress under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. (d) Reserved water rights Effective December 22, 2014, there shall be no Federal reserved water rights to any segment of the San Joaquin River related to the Project as a result of any designation made under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ). 403. CALFED storage accountability If the Secretary of the Interior fails to provide the feasibility studies described in section 401 to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate by the times prescribed, the Secretary shall notify each committee chair individually in person on the status of each project once a month until the feasibility study for that project is provided to Congress. 404. Water storage project construction (a) Partnership and agreements The Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, may partner or enter into an agreement on the water storage projects identified in section 103(d)(1) of the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act ( Public Law 108–361 ) (and Acts supplemental and amendatory to the Act) with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to State law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region, to advance those projects. (b) Authorization for project If the Secretary determines a project described in section 402(a)(1) and (2) is feasible, the Secretary is authorized to carry out the project in a manner that is substantially in accordance with the recommended plan, and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided that no Federal funding shall be used to construct the project. V WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS 501. Offset for State Water Project (a) Implementation impacts The Secretary of the Interior shall confer with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in connection with the implementation of this Act on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the State Water Project issued pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1. (b) Additional yield If, as a result of the application of this Act, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife— (1) revokes the consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 that are applicable to the State Water Project; (2) amends or issues one or more new consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion; or (3) requires take authorization under California Fish and Game Code section 2081 for operation of the State Water Project in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and as a consequence of the Department’s action, Central Valley Project yield is greater than it would have been absent the Department’s actions, then that additional yield shall be made available to the State Water Project for delivery to State Water Project contractors to offset losses resulting from the Department’s action. (c) Notification related to environmental protections The Secretary of the Interior shall immediately notify the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in writing if the Secretary of the Interior determines that implementation of the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion consistent with this Act reduces environmental protections for any species covered by the opinions. 502. Area of origin protections (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to adhere to California’s water rights laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the Central Valley Project, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914, as well as water rights and other priorities perfected or to be perfected pursuant to California Water Code Part 2 of Division 2. Article 1.7 (commencing with section 1215 of chapter 1 of part 2 of division 2, sections 10505, 10505.5, 11128, 11460, 11461, 11462, and 11463, and sections 12200 to 12220, inclusive). (b) Diversions Any action undertaken by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to both this Act and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that requires that diversions from the Sacramento River or the San Joaquin River watersheds upstream of the Delta be bypassed shall not be undertaken in a manner that alters the water rights priorities established by California law. (c) Endangered species act Nothing in this title alters the existing authorities provided to and obligations placed upon the Federal Government under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), as amended. (d) Contracts With respect to individuals and entities with water rights on the Sacramento River, the mandates of this section may be met, in whole or in part, through a contract with the Secretary of the Interior executed pursuant to section 14 of Public Law 76–260 ; 53 Stat. 1187 ( 43 U.S.C. 389 ) that is in conformance with the Sacramento River Settlement Contracts renewed by the Secretary of the Interior in 2005. 503. No redirected adverse impacts (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that, except as otherwise provided for in a water service or repayment contract, actions taken in compliance with legal obligations imposed pursuant to or as a result of this Act, including such actions under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) and other applicable Federal and State laws, shall not directly or indirectly— (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to individuals or districts who receive water from either the State Water Project or the United States under water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, water service contracts, repayment contracts, or water supply contracts; or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River watershed, the San Joaquin River watershed or the State Water Project service area. (b) Costs To the extent that costs are incurred solely pursuant to or as a result of this Act and would not otherwise have been incurred by any entity or public or local agency or subdivision of the State of California, such costs shall not be borne by any such entity, agency, or subdivision of the State of California, unless such costs are incurred on a voluntary basis. (c) Rights and obligations not modified or amended Nothing in this Act shall modify or amend the rights and obligations of the parties to any existing— (1) water service, repayment, settlement, purchase, or exchange contract with the United States, including the obligation to satisfy exchange contracts and settlement contracts prior to the allocation of any other Central Valley Project water; or (2) State Water Project water supply or settlement contract with the State. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors (a) Allocations (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2) and subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with the following: (A) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Wet year. (B) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in an Above Normal year. (C) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Below Normal year that is preceded by an Above Normal or a Wet year. (D) Not less than 50 percent of their contract quantities in a Dry year that is preceded by a Below Normal, an Above Normal, or a Wet year. (E) In all other years not identified herein, the allocation percentage for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed shall not be less than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors, up to 100 percent; provided, that nothing herein shall preclude an allocation to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed that is greater than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors. (2) Conditions The Secretary’s actions under paragraph (a) shall be subject to— (A) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, including those with Sacramento River Settlement Contracts, that have priority to the diversion and use of Sacramento River water over water rights held by the United States for operations of the Central Valley Project; (B) the United States obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors; and (C) the Secretary’s obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to section 3406(d) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). (b) Protection of municipal and industrial supplies Nothing in subsection (a) shall be deemed to— (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies of the Secretary; (2) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to adopt or modify municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; or (4) affect allocations to Central Valley Project municipal and industrial contractors pursuant to such policies. Neither subsection (a) nor the Secretary’s implementation of subsection (a) shall constrain, govern or affect, directly, the operations of the Central Valley Project’s American River Division or any deliveries from that Division, its units or facilities. (c) No effect on allocations This section shall not— (1) affect the allocation of water to Friant Division contractors; or (2) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. (d) Program for water rescheduling The Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, to provide for the opportunity for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project water service contracts, from one year to the next. (e) Definitions In this section: (1) The term existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed means water service contractors within the Shasta, Trinity, and Sacramento River Divisions of the Central Valley Project, that have a water service contract in effect, on the date of the enactment of this section, that provides water for irrigation. (2) The year type terms used in subsection (a) have the meaning given those year types in the Sacramento Valley Water Year Type (40–30–30) Index. 505. Effect on existing obligations Nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under Federal reclamation law to operate the Central Valley Project in conformity with State law, including established water rights priorities. VI MISCELLANEOUS 601. Authorized service area (a) In general The authorized service area of the Central Valley Project authorized under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) shall include the area within the boundaries of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act. (b) Long-Term contract (1) In general Notwithstanding the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) and subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior, in accordance with the Federal reclamation laws, shall enter into a long-term contract with the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, under terms and conditions mutually agreeable to the parties, for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of Central Valley Project water for municipal and industrial use. (2) Limitation Central Valley Project water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under paragraph (1) shall be limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet the immediate needs of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, in the event that local supplies or State Water Project allocations are insufficient to meet those needs. (c) Permit The Secretary shall apply for a permit with the State for a joint place of use for water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under subsection (b) with respect to the expanded service area under subsection (a), consistent with State law. (d) Additional costs If any additional infrastructure, water treatment, or related costs are needed to implement this section, those costs shall be the responsibility of the non-Federal entity. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund (a) Plan; advisory board Section 3407 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4726) is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) Plan on expenditure of funds (1) In general For each fiscal year, the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. (2) Contents The plan shall include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. (h) Advisory board (1) Establishment There is established the Restoration Fund Advisory Board (referred to in this section as the Advisory Board ), which shall be composed of 11 members appointed by the Secretary. (2) Membership (A) In general The Secretary shall appoint members to the Advisory Board that represent the various Central Valley Project stakeholders, of whom— (i) 4 members shall be agricultural users of the Central Valley Project, including at least one agricultural user from north-of-the-Delta and one agricultural user from south-of-the-Delta; (ii) 2 members shall be municipal and industrial users of the Central Valley Project, including one municipal and industrial user from north-of-the-Delta and one municipal and industrial user from south-of-the-Delta; (iii) 2 members shall be power contractors of the Central Valley Project, including at least one power contractor from north-of-the-Delta and from south-of-the-Delta; (iv) 1 member shall be a representative of a Federal national wildlife refuge that contracts for Central Valley Project water supplies with the Bureau of Reclamation; (v) 1 member shall have expertise in the economic impacts of the changes to water operations; and (vi) 1 member shall be a representative of a wildlife entity that primarily focuses on waterfowl. (B) Observer The Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce may each designate a representative to act as an observer of the Advisory Board. (C) Chair The Secretary shall appoint 1 of the members described in subparagraph (A) to serve as Chair of the Advisory Board. (3) Terms The term of each member of the Advisory Board shall be 4 years. (4) Date of appointments The appointment of a member of the Panel shall be made not later than— (A) the date that is 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act; or (B) in the case of a vacancy on the Panel described in subsection (c)(2), the date that is 120 days after the date on which the vacancy occurs. (5) Vacancies (A) In general A vacancy on the Panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and shall be subject to any conditions that applied with respect to the original appointment. (B) Filling unexpired term An individual chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed for the unexpired term of the member replaced. (C) Expiration of terms The term of any member shall not expire before the date on which the successor of the member takes office. (6) Removal A member of the Panel may be removed from office by the Secretary of the Interior. (7) Federal advisory committee act The Panel shall not be subject to the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. (8) Duties The duties of the Advisory Board are— (A) to meet not less frequently than semiannually to develop and make recommendations to the Secretary regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs carried out under this title; (B) to ensure that any advice given or recommendation made by the Advisory Board reflects the independent judgment of the Advisory Board; (C) not later than December 31, 2015, and annually thereafter, to submit to the Secretary and Congress the recommendations under subparagraph (A); and (D) not later than December 31, 2015, and biennially thereafter, to submit to Congress details of the progress made in achieving the actions required under section 3406. (9) Administration With the consent of the appropriate agency head, the Advisory Board may use the facilities and services of any Federal agency. (10) Cooperation and assistance (A) Provision of information Upon request of the Panel Chair for information or assistance to facilitate carrying out this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall promptly provide such information, unless otherwise prohibited by law. (B) Space and assistance The Secretary of the Interior shall provide the Panel with appropriate and adequate office space, together with such equipment, office supplies, and communications facilities and services as may be necessary for the operation of the Panel, and shall provide necessary maintenance services for such offices and the equipment and facilities located therein. . 603. Water supply accounting (a) In general All Central Valley Project water, except Central Valley Project water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000 used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by terms and conditions existing in licenses, permits, and other agreements pertaining to the Central Valley Project under applicable State or Federal law existing on October 30, 1992, shall be credited to the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed under this section; provided, that nothing herein shall affect the Secretary of the Interior’s duty to comply with any otherwise lawful requirement imposed on operations of the Central Valley Project under any provision of Federal or State law. (b) Reclamation policies and allocations Reclamation policies and allocations shall not be based upon any premise or assumption that Central Valley Project contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan (a) In general Not later than October 1, 2016, the Secretary of the Interior shall update and implement the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . The Secretary shall notify the Congress annually describing the progress of implementing the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . (b) Potential amendment If the plan required in subsection (a) has not increased the Central Valley Project yield by 800,000 acre-feet within 5 years after the enactment of this Act, then section 3406 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) is amended as follows: (1) In subsection (b)— (A) by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read: (C) If by March 15, 2021, and any year thereafter the quantity of Central Valley Project water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the Central Valley Project is below 50 percent of the total quantity of water to be made available under said contracts, the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed for that year under this paragraph shall be reduced by 25 percent. . 605. Natural and artificially spawned species After the date of the enactment of this title, and regardless of the date of listing, the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce shall not distinguish between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides for all or a portion of its life in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or rivers tributary thereto. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section, the following terms apply: (1) Interested local water and power providers The term interested local water and power providers includes the Calaveras County Water District, Calaveras Public Power Agency, Central San Joaquin Water Conservation District, Oakdale Irrigation District, Stockton East Water District, South San Joaquin Irrigation District, Tuolumne Utilities District, Tuolumne Public Power Agency, and Union Public Utilities District. (2) New melones unit, central valley project The term New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project means all Federal reclamation projects located within or diverting water from or to the watershed of the Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries as authorized by the Act of August 26, 1937 (50 Stat. 850), and all Acts amendatory or supplemental thereto, including the Act of October 23, 1962 (76 Stat. 1173). (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Negotiations Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into negotiations with interested local water and power providers for the transfer ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers within the State of California. (c) Transfer The Secretary shall transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project in accordance with an agreement reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b). (d) Notification Not later than 360 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate— (1) if an agreement is reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b), the terms of that agreement; (2) of the status of formal discussions with interested local water and power providers for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (3) of all unresolved issues that are preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (4) on analysis and review of studies, reports, discussions, hearing transcripts, negotiations, and other information about past and present formal discussions that— (A) have a serious impact on the progress of the formal discussions; (B) explain or provide information about the issues that prevent progress or finalization of formal discussions; or (C) are, in whole or in part, preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer; and (5) of any actions the Secretary recommends that the United States should take to finalize an agreement for that transfer. 607. Basin studies (a) Authorized studies The Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to expand opportunities and expedite completion of assessments under section 9503(b) of the SECURE Water Act ( 42 U.S.C. 10363(b) ), with non-Federal partners, of individual sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins; and shall ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. (b) Funding (1) In general The non-Federal partners shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the special studies. (2) Contributed Funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the non-Federal partners to carry out activities under the special studies. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division The Secretary of the Interior, in the operation of the Trinity River Division of the Central Valley Project, shall not make releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type required by the U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. (1) A maximum of 369,000 acre-feet in a Critically Dry year. (2) A maximum of 453,000 acre-feet in a Dry year. (3) A maximum of 647,000 acre-feet in a Normal year. (4) A maximum of 701,000 acre-feet in a Wet year. (5) A maximum of 815,000 acre-feet in an Extremely Wet year. 609. Amendment to purposes Section 3402 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4706) is amended— (1) in subsection (f), by striking the period at the end; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (g) to ensure that water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes by this title is replaced and provided to Central Valley Project water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable; and (h) to facilitate and expedite water transfers in accordance with this Act. . 610. Amendment to definition Section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4707) is amended— (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) the term anadromous fish means those native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that, as of October 30, 1992, were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean; ; (2) in subsection (l), by striking and, ; (3) in subsection (m), by striking the period and inserting ; and ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (n) the term reasonable flow means water flows capable of being maintained taking into account competing consumptive uses of water and economic, environmental, and social factors. . 611. Report on results of water usage The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Natural Resources of the State of California, shall publish an annual report detailing instream flow releases from the Central Valley Project and California State Water Project, their explicit purpose and authority, and all measured environmental benefit as a result of the releases. 612. Klamath project consultation applicants If the Bureau of Reclamation initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Klamath Project (or any part thereof), Klamath Project contractors shall be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. Upon request of the Klamath Project contractors, they may be represented through an association or organization. VII Water Supply Permitting Act 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act . 702. Definitions In this title: (1) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (2) Bureau The term Bureau means the Bureau of Reclamation. (3) Qualifying projects The term qualifying projects means new surface water storage projects in the States covered under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) constructed on lands administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding. (4) Cooperating agencies The term cooperating agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations, or a State agency subject to section 703(c). 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies (a) Establishment of Lead Agency The Bureau of Reclamation is established as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions required under Federal law to construct qualifying projects. (b) Identification and Establishment of Cooperating Agencies The Commissioner of the Bureau shall— (1) identify, as early as practicable upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, any Federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, approval, or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations; and (2) notify any such agency, within a reasonable timeframe, that the agency has been designated as a cooperating agency in regards to the qualifying project unless that agency responds to the Bureau in writing, within a timeframe set forth by the Bureau, notifying the Bureau that the agency— (A) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the qualifying project; (B) has no expertise or information relevant to the qualifying project or any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision associated therewith; or (C) does not intend to submit comments on the qualifying project or conduct any review of such a project or make any decision with respect to such project in a manner other than in cooperation with the Bureau. (c) State Authority A State in which a qualifying project is being considered may choose, consistent with State law— (1) to participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) to make subject to the processes of this title all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the qualifying project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, or opinion for the qualifying project; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the qualifying project. 704. Bureau responsibilities (a) In general The principal responsibilities of the Bureau under this title are to— (1) serve as the point of contact for applicants, State agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all Federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of Federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) coordinate all Federal agency reviews necessary for project development and construction of qualifying projects. (b) Coordination process The Bureau shall have the following coordination responsibilities: (1) Pre-application coordination Notify cooperating agencies of proposed qualifying projects not later than 30 days after receipt of a proposal and facilitate a preapplication meeting for prospective applicants, relevant Federal and State agencies, and Indian tribes to— (A) explain applicable processes, data requirements, and applicant submissions necessary to complete the required Federal agency reviews within the timeframe established; and (B) establish the schedule for the qualifying project. (2) Consultation with cooperating agencies Consult with the cooperating agencies throughout the Federal agency review process, identify and obtain relevant data in a timely manner, and set necessary deadlines for cooperating agencies. (3) Schedule Work with the qualifying project applicant and cooperating agencies to establish a project schedule. In establishing the schedule, the Bureau shall consider, among other factors— (A) the responsibilities of cooperating agencies under applicable laws and regulations; (B) the resources available to the cooperating agencies and the non-Federal qualifying project sponsor, as applicable; (C) the overall size and complexity of the qualifying project; (D) the overall schedule for and cost of the qualifying project; and (E) the sensitivity of the natural and historic resources that may be affected by the qualifying project. (4) Environmental compliance Prepare a unified environmental review document for each qualifying project application, incorporating a single environmental record on which all cooperating agencies with authority to issue approvals for a given qualifying project shall base project approval decisions. Help ensure that cooperating agencies make necessary decisions, within their respective authorities, regarding Federal approvals in accordance with the following timelines: (A) Not later than one year after acceptance of a completed project application when an environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact is determined to be the appropriate level of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (B) Not later than one year and 30 days after the close of the public comment period for a draft environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ), when an environmental impact statement is required under the same. (5) Consolidated administrative record Maintain a consolidated administrative record of the information assembled and used by the cooperating agencies as the basis for agency decisions. (6) Project data records To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, ensure that all project data is submitted and maintained in generally accessible electronic format, compile, and where authorized under existing law, make available such project data to cooperating agencies, the qualifying project applicant, and to the public. (7) Project manager Appoint a project manager for each qualifying project. The project manager shall have authority to oversee the project and to facilitate the issuance of the relevant final authorizing documents, and shall be responsible for ensuring fulfillment of all Bureau responsibilities set forth in this section and all cooperating agency responsibilities under section 705. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities (a) Adherence to Bureau Schedule Upon notification of an application for a qualifying project, all cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau a timeframe under which the cooperating agency reasonably considers it will be able to complete its authorizing responsibilities. The Bureau shall use the timeframe submitted under this subsection to establish the project schedule under section 704, and the cooperating agencies shall adhere to the project schedule established by the Bureau. (b) Environmental Record Cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau all environmental review material produced or compiled in the course of carrying out activities required under Federal law consistent with the project schedule established by the Bureau. (c) Data Submission To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, the cooperating agencies shall submit all relevant project data to the Bureau in a generally accessible electronic format subject to the project schedule set forth by the Bureau. 706. Funding to process permits (a) In general The Secretary, after public notice in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act ( 5 U.S.C. 553 ), may accept and expend funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. (b) Effect on permitting (1) In general In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the use of funds accepted under subsection (a) will not impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to permits, either substantively or procedurally. (2) Evaluation of permits In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the evaluation of permits carried out using funds accepted under this section shall— (A) be reviewed by the Regional Director of the Bureau, or the Regional Director’s designee, of the region in which the qualifying project or activity is located; and (B) use the same procedures for decisions that would otherwise be required for the evaluation of permits for similar projects or activities not carried out using funds authorized under this section. (3) Impartial decisionmaking In carrying out this section, the Secretary and the cooperating agencies receiving funds under this section for qualifying projects shall ensure that the use of the funds accepted under this section for such projects shall not— (A) impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to the issuance of permits, either substantively or procedurally; or (B) diminish, modify, or otherwise affect the statutory or regulatory authorities of such agencies. (c) Limitation on use of funds None of the funds accepted under this section shall be used to carry out a review of the evaluation of permits required under subsection (b)(2)(A). (d) Public availability The Secretary shall ensure that all final permit decisions carried out using funds authorized under this section are made available to the public, including on the Internet. VIII Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining 801. Short title This title may be cited as the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act . 802. Definitions In this title: (1) Environmental impact statement The term environmental impact statement means the detailed statement of environmental impacts of a project required to be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (2) Environmental review process (A) In general The term environmental review process means the process of preparing an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for a project study. (B) Inclusions The term environmental review process includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project study under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (3) Federal jurisdictional agency The term Federal jurisdictional agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction delegated by law, regulation, order, or otherwise over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a project study under applicable Federal laws (including regulations). (4) Federal lead agency The term Federal lead agency means the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Project The term project means a surface water project, a project under the purview of title XVI of Public Law 102–575 , or a rural water supply project investigated under Public Law 109–451 to be carried out, funded or operated in whole or in party by the Secretary pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (6) Project sponsor The term project sponsor means a State, regional, or local authority or instrumentality or other qualifying entity, such as a water conservation district, irrigation district, water conservancy district, joint powers authority, mutual water company, canal company, rural water district or association, or any other entity that has the capacity to contract with the United States under Federal reclamation law. (7) Project study The term project study means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (8) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (9) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any surface water reservoir or impoundment that would be owned, funded or operated in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation or that would be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. 803. Acceleration of studies (a) In general To the extent practicable, a project study initiated by the Secretary, after the date of enactment of this Act, under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto, shall— (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report not later than 3 years after the date of initiation; (2) have a maximum Federal cost of $3,000,000; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and headquarters levels of the Bureau of Reclamation concurrently conduct the review required under this section. (b) Extension If the Secretary determines that a project study described in subsection (a) will not be conducted in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary, not later than 30 days after the date of making the determination, shall— (1) prepare an updated project study schedule and cost estimate; (2) notify the non-Federal project cost-sharing partner that the project study has been delayed; and (3) provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the reasons the requirements of subsection (a) are not attainable. (c) Exception (1) In general Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary may extend the timeline of a project study by a period not to exceed 3 years, if the Secretary determines that the project study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a). (2) Factors In making a determination that a study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider— (A) the type, size, location, scope, and overall cost of the project; (B) whether the project will use any innovative design or construction techniques; (C) whether the project will require significant action by other Federal, State, or local agencies; (D) whether there is significant public dispute as to the nature or effects of the project; and (E) whether there is significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project. (3) Notification Each time the Secretary makes a determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the results of that determination, including an identification of the specific one or more factors used in making the determination that the project is complex. (4) Limitation The Secretary shall not extend the timeline for a project study for a period of more than 7 years, and any project study that is not completed before that date shall no longer be authorized. (d) Reviews Not later than 90 days after the date of the initiation of a project study described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall— (1) take all steps necessary to initiate the process for completing federally mandated reviews that the Secretary is required to complete as part of the study, including the environmental review process under section 805; (2) convene a meeting of all Federal, tribal, and State agencies identified under section 805(d) that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study; and (3) take all steps necessary to provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses related to the project to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. (e) Interim report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of the planning process under this section, including the number of participating projects; (2) a review of project delivery schedules, including a description of any delays on those studies initiated prior to the date of the enactment of this Act; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project. (f) Final report Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of this section, including a description of each project study subject to the requirements of this section; (2) the amount of time taken to complete each project study; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project study process, including an analysis of whether the limitation established by subsection (a)(2) needs to be adjusted to address the impacts of inflation. 804. Expedited completion of reports The Secretary shall— (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) if the Secretary determines that the project is justified in a completed report, proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of the project in accordance with the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. 805. Project acceleration (a) Applicability (1) In general This section shall apply to— (A) each project study that is initiated after the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (B) the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other project studies initiated before the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental review process document is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (C) any project study for the development of a non-federally owned and operated surface water storage project for which the Secretary determines there is a demonstrable Federal interest and the project— (i) is located in a river basin where other Bureau of Reclamation water projects are located; (ii) will create additional water supplies that support Bureau of Reclamation water projects; or (iii) will become integrated into the operation of Bureau of Reclamation water projects. (2) Flexibility Any authority granted under this section may be exercised, and any requirement established under this section may be satisfied, for the conduct of an environmental review process for a project study, a class of project studies, or a program of project studies. (3) List of project studies (A) In general The Secretary shall annually prepare, and make publicly available, a list of all project studies that the Secretary has determined— (i) meets the standards described in paragraph (1); and (ii) does not have adequate funding to make substantial progress toward the completion of the project study. (B) Inclusions The Secretary shall include for each project study on the list under subparagraph (A) a description of the estimated amounts necessary to make substantial progress on the project study. (b) Project review process (1) In general The Secretary shall develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of project studies. (2) Coordinated review The coordinated environmental review process described in paragraph (1) shall require that any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision issued or made by a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or an Indian tribe for a project study described in subsection (b) be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, concurrently with any other applicable governmental agency or Indian tribe. (3) Timing The coordinated environmental review process under this subsection shall be completed not later than the date on which the Secretary, in consultation and concurrence with the agencies identified under section 805(d), establishes with respect to the project study. (c) Lead agencies (1) Joint lead agencies (A) In general Subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the requirements of section 1506.8 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), including the concurrence of the proposed joint lead agency, a project sponsor may serve as the joint lead agency. (B) Project sponsor as joint lead agency A project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity may— (i) with the concurrence of the Secretary, serve as a joint lead agency with the Federal lead agency for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) prepare any environmental review process document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if— (I) the Secretary provides guidance in the preparation process and independently evaluates that document; (II) the project sponsor complies with all requirements applicable to the Secretary under— (aa) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (bb) any regulation implementing that Act; and (cc) any other applicable Federal law; and (III) the Secretary approves and adopts the document before the Secretary takes any subsequent action or makes any approval based on that document, regardless of whether the action or approval of the Secretary results in Federal funding. (2) Duties The Secretary shall ensure that— (A) the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection; and (B) any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor is appropriately supplemented to address any changes to the project the Secretary determines are necessary. (3) Adoption and use of documents Any environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection shall be adopted and used by any Federal agency making any determination related to the project study to the same extent that the Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency under— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) parts 1500 through 1508 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations). (4) Roles and responsibility of lead agency With respect to the environmental review process for any project study, the Federal lead agency shall have authority and responsibility— (A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper and within the authority of the Federal lead agency to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project study; and (B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other environmental review document for a project study required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law. (d) Participating and cooperating agencies (1) Identification of jurisdictional agencies With respect to carrying out the environmental review process for a project study, the Secretary shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, all Federal, State, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (2) State authority If the environmental review process is being implemented by the Secretary for a project study within the boundaries of a State, the State, consistent with State law, may choose to participate in the process and to make subject to the process all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (3) Invitation (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall invite, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, any agency identified under paragraph (1) to become a participating or cooperating agency, as applicable, in the environmental review process for the project study. (B) Deadline An invitation to participate issued under subparagraph (A) shall set a deadline by which a response to the invitation shall be submitted, which may be extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (4) Procedures Section 1501.6 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act) shall govern the identification and the participation of a cooperating agency. (5) Federal cooperating agencies Any Federal agency that is invited by the Federal lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project study shall be designated as a cooperating agency by the Federal lead agency unless the invited agency informs the Federal lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency— (A) (i) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project; (ii) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; or (iii) does not have adequate funds to participate in the project; and (B) does not intend to submit comments on the project. (6) Administration A participating or cooperating agency shall comply with this section and any schedule established under this section. (7) Effect of designation Designation as a participating or cooperating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating or cooperating agency— (A) supports a proposed project; or (B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project. (8) Concurrent reviews Each participating or cooperating agency shall— (A) carry out the obligations of that agency under other applicable law concurrently and in conjunction with the required environmental review process, unless doing so would prevent the participating or cooperating agency from conducting needed analysis or otherwise carrying out those obligations; and (B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner. (e) Non-Federal projects integrated into reclamation systems The Federal lead agency shall serve in that capacity for the entirety of all non-Federal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. (f) Non-Federal project If the Secretary determines that a project can be expedited by a non-Federal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable Federal interest in expediting that project, the Secretary shall take such actions as are necessary to advance such a project as a non-Federal project, including, but not limited to, entering into agreements with the non-Federal sponsor of such project to support the planning, design and permitting of such project as a non-Federal project. (g) Programmatic compliance (1) In general The Secretary shall issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process that— (A) eliminates repetitive discussions of the same issues; (B) focuses on the actual issues ripe for analyses at each level of review; (C) establishes a formal process for coordinating with participating and cooperating agencies, including the creation of a list of all data that are needed to carry out an environmental review process; and (D) complies with— (i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) all other applicable laws. (2) Requirements In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— (A) as the first step in drafting guidance under that paragraph, consult with relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public on the appropriate use and scope of the programmatic approaches; (B) emphasize the importance of collaboration among relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, and Indian tribes in undertaking programmatic reviews, especially with respect to including reviews with a broad geographical scope; (C) ensure that the programmatic reviews— (i) promote transparency, including of the analyses and data used in the environmental review process, the treatment of any deferred issues raised by Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, or the public, and the temporal and special scales to be used to analyze those issues; (ii) use accurate and timely information in the environmental review process, including— (I) criteria for determining the general duration of the usefulness of the review; and (II) the timeline for updating any out-of-date review; (iii) describe— (I) the relationship between programmatic analysis and future tiered analysis; and (II) the role of the public in the creation of future tiered analysis; and (iv) are available to other relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public; (D) allow not fewer than 60 days of public notice and comment on any proposed guidance; and (E) address any comments received under subparagraph (D). (h) Coordinated reviews (1) Coordination plan (A) Establishment The Federal lead agency shall, after consultation with and with the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in, and comment on, the environmental review process for a project study or a category of project studies. (B) Schedule (i) In general As soon as practicable but not later than 45 days after the close of the public comment period on a draft environmental impact statement, the Federal lead agency, after consultation with and the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, shall establish, as part of the coordination plan established in subparagraph (A), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project study. (ii) Factors for consideration In establishing a schedule, the Secretary shall consider factors such as— (I) the responsibilities of participating and cooperating agencies under applicable laws; (II) the resources available to the project sponsor, joint lead agency, and other relevant Federal and State agencies, as applicable; (III) the overall size and complexity of the project; (IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and (V) the sensitivity of the natural and historical resources that could be affected by the project. (iii) Modifications The Secretary may— (I) lengthen a schedule established under clause (i) for good cause; and (II) shorten a schedule only with concurrence of the affected participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable. (iv) Dissemination A copy of a schedule established under clause (i) shall be— (I) provided to each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable; and (II) made available to the public. (2) Comment deadlines The Federal lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project study: (A) Draft environmental impact statements For comments by Federal and State agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of the draft environmental impact statement, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (B) Other environmental review processes For all other comment periods established by the Federal lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of not more than 30 days after the date on which the materials on which comment is requested are made available, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor, or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws In any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project study, including the issuance or denial of a permit or license, is required to be made by the date described in subsection (i)(5)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate— (A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period described in subsection (i)(5)(B), an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and (B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project study have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice. (4) Involvement of the public Nothing in this subsection reduces any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under applicable Federal law (including regulations). (5) Transparency reporting (A) Reporting requirements Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish and maintain an electronic database and, in coordination with other Federal and State agencies, issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and any other Federal, State, or local approval or action required for a project study for which this section is applicable. (B) Project study transparency Consistent with the requirements established under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall make publicly available the status and progress of any Federal, State, or local decision, action, or approval required under applicable laws for each project study for which this section is applicable. (i) Issue identification and resolution (1) Cooperation The Federal lead agency, the cooperating agencies, and any participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (2) Federal lead agency responsibilities (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall make information available to the cooperating agencies and participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration. (B) Data sources The information under subparagraph (A) may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping. (3) Cooperating and participating agency responsibilities Based on information received from the Federal lead agency, cooperating and participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts of the project, including any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project study. (4) Accelerated issue resolution and elevation (A) In general On the request of a participating or cooperating agency or project sponsor, the Secretary shall convene an issue resolution meeting with the relevant participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, to resolve issues that may— (i) delay completion of the environmental review process; or (ii) result in denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (B) Meeting date A meeting requested under this paragraph shall be held not later than 21 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the request for the meeting, unless the Secretary determines that there is good cause to extend that deadline. (C) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under this paragraph, the Secretary shall notify all relevant participating and cooperating agencies of the request, including the issue to be resolved and the date for the meeting. (D) Elevation of issue resolution If a resolution cannot be achieved within the 30-day period beginning on the date of a meeting under this paragraph and a determination is made by the Secretary that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the Secretary shall forward the dispute to the heads of the relevant agencies for resolution. (E) Convention by secretary The Secretary may convene an issue resolution meeting under this paragraph at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under subparagraph (A). (5) Financial penalty provisions (A) In general A Federal jurisdictional agency shall complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis using the shortest existing applicable process. (B) Failure to decide (i) In general (I) Transfer of funds If a Federal jurisdictional agency fails to render a decision required under any Federal law relating to a project study that requires the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, including the issuance or denial of a permit, license, statement, opinion, or other approval by the date described in clause (ii), the amount of funds made available to support the office of the head of the Federal jurisdictional agency shall be reduced by an amount of funding equal to the amount specified in item (aa) or (bb) of subclause (II), and those funds shall be made available to the division of the Federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than 1 day after the applicable date under clause (ii), and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered, subject to subparagraph (C). (II) Amount to be transferred The amount referred to in subclause (I) is— (aa) $20,000 for any project study requiring the preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement; or (bb) $10,000 for any project study requiring any type of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) other than an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. (ii) Description of date The date referred to in clause (i) is the later of— (I) the date that is 180 days after the date on which an application for the permit, license, or approval is complete; and (II) the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Federal lead agency issues a decision on the project under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (C) Limitations (i) In general No transfer of funds under subparagraph (B) relating to an individual project study shall exceed, in any fiscal year, an amount equal to 1 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office. (ii) Failure to decide The total amount transferred in a fiscal year as a result of a failure by an agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline shall not exceed an amount equal to 5 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office for that fiscal year. (iii) Aggregate Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, the aggregate amount of financial penalties assessed against each applicable agency office under this Act and any other Federal law as a result of a failure of the agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline for environmental review, including the total amount transferred under this paragraph, shall not exceed an amount equal to 9.5 percent of the funds made available for the agency office for that fiscal year. (D) Notification of transfers Not later than 10 days after the last date in a fiscal year on which funds of the Federal jurisdictional agency may be transferred under subparagraph (B)(5) with respect to an individual decision, the agency shall submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate written notification that includes a description of— (i) the decision; (ii) the project study involved; (iii) the amount of each transfer under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; (iv) the total amount of all transfers under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; and (v) the total amount of all transfers of the agency under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year. (E) No fault of agency (i) In general A transfer of funds under this paragraph shall not be made if the applicable agency described in subparagraph (A) notifies, with a supporting explanation, the Federal lead agency, cooperating agencies, and project sponsor, as applicable, that— (I) the agency has not received necessary information or approvals from another entity in a manner that affects the ability of the agency to meet any requirements under Federal, State, or local law; (II) significant new information, including from public comments, or circumstances, including a major modification to an aspect of the project, requires additional analysis for the agency to make a decision on the project application; or (III) the agency lacks the financial resources to complete the review under the scheduled timeframe, including a description of the number of full-time employees required to complete the review, the amount of funding required to complete the review, and a justification as to why not enough funding is available to complete the review by the deadline. (ii) Lack of financial resources If the agency provides notice under clause (i)(III), the Inspector General of the agency shall— (I) conduct a financial audit to review the notice; and (II) not later than 90 days after the date on which the review described in subclause (I) is completed, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate the results of the audit conducted under subclause (I). (F) Limitation The Federal agency from which funds are transferred pursuant to this paragraph shall not reprogram funds to the office of the head of the agency, or equivalent office, to reimburse that office for the loss of the funds. (G) Effect of paragraph Nothing in this paragraph affects or limits the application of, or obligation to comply with, any Federal, State, local, or tribal law. (j) Memorandum of agreements for early coordination (1) Sense of congress It is the sense of Congress that— (A) the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process should cooperate with each other, State and local agencies, and Indian tribes on environmental review and Bureau of Reclamation project delivery activities at the earliest practicable time to avoid delays and duplication of effort later in the process, prevent potential conflicts, and ensure that planning and project development decisions reflect environmental values; and (B) the cooperation referred to in subparagraph (A) should include the development of policies and the designation of staff that advise planning agencies and project sponsors of studies or other information foreseeably required for later Federal action and early consultation with appropriate State and local agencies and Indian tribes. (2) Technical assistance If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, shall, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, as determined by the agencies, provide technical assistance to the State or project sponsor in carrying out early coordination activities. (3) Memorandum of agency agreement If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Federal lead agency, in consultation with other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, may establish memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, State and local governments, and other appropriate entities to carry out the early coordination activities, including providing technical assistance in identifying potential impacts and mitigation issues in an integrated fashion. (k) Limitations Nothing in this section preempts or interferes with— (1) any obligation to comply with the provisions of any Federal law, including— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) any other Federal environmental law; (2) the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State; (3) any requirement for seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or (4) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, duty, or authority that a Federal, State, or local governmental agency, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provision of law applicable to projects. (l) Timing of claims (1) Timing (A) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or other approval issued by a Federal agency for a project study shall be barred unless the claim is filed not later than 3 years after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or other approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law that allows judicial review. (B) Applicability Nothing in this subsection creates a right to judicial review or places any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or other approval. (2) New information (A) In general The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations). (B) Separate action The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document, if required under this section, shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of the action shall be 3 years after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing the action relating to such supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document. (m) Categorical exclusions (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) survey the use by the Bureau of Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005; (B) publish a review of the survey that includes a description of— (i) the types of actions that were categorically excluded or could be the basis for developing a new categorical exclusion; and (ii) any requests previously received by the Secretary for new categorical exclusions; and (C) solicit requests from other Federal agencies and project sponsors for new categorical exclusions. (2) New categorical exclusions Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, if the Secretary has identified a category of activities that merit establishing a categorical exclusion that did not exist on the day before the date of enactment this Act based on the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to propose that new categorical exclusion, to the extent that the categorical exclusion meets the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation). (n) Review of project acceleration reforms (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall— (A) assess the reforms carried out under this section; and (B) not later than 5 years and not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the assessment. (2) Contents The reports under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of impacts of the reforms carried out under this section on— (A) project delivery; (B) compliance with environmental laws; and (C) the environmental impact of projects. (o) Performance measurement The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. (p) Categorical exclusions in emergencies For the repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of a Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project that is in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. ), the Secretary shall treat such repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation activity as a class of action categorically excluded from the requirements relating to environmental assessments or environmental impact statements under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), if the repair or reconstruction activity is— (1) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, and design as the original Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project as before the declaration described in this section; and (2) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described in this subsection. 806. Annual report to Congress (a) In general Not later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate an annual report, to be entitled Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development , that identifies the following: (1) Project reports Each project report that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (2) Proposed project studies Any proposed project study submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b) that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (3) Proposed modifications Any proposed modification to an authorized water project or project study that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A) that— (A) is submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b); or (B) is identified by the Secretary for authorization. (4) Expedited completion of report and determinations Any project study that was expedited and any Secretarial determinations under section 804. (b) Requests for proposals (1) Publication Not later than May 1 of each year, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice requesting proposals from non-Federal interests for proposed project studies and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies to be included in the annual report. (2) Deadline for requests The Secretary shall include in each notice required by this subsection a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in paragraph (1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of the notice in the Federal Register in order for the proposals to be considered for inclusion in the annual report. (3) Notification On the date of publication of each notice required by this subsection, the Secretary shall— (A) make the notice publicly available, including on the Internet; and (B) provide written notification of the publication to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate. (c) Contents (1) Project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications (A) Criteria for inclusion in report The Secretary shall include in the annual report only those project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies that— (i) are related to the missions and authorities of the Bureau of Reclamation; (ii) require specific congressional authorization, including by an Act of Congress; (iii) have not been congressionally authorized; (iv) have not been included in any previous annual report; and (v) if authorized, could be carried out by the Bureau of Reclamation. (B) Description of benefits (i) Description The Secretary shall describe in the annual report, to the extent applicable and practicable, for each proposed project study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or project study included in the annual report, the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each such study or proposed modification. (ii) Benefits The benefits (or expected benefits, in the case of a proposed project study) described in this clause are benefits to— (I) the protection of human life and property; (II) improvement to domestic irrigated water and power supplies; (III) the national economy; (IV) the environment; or (V) the national security interests of the United States. (C) Identification of other factors The Secretary shall identify in the annual report, to the extent practicable— (i) for each proposed project study included in the annual report, the non-Federal interest that submitted the proposed project study pursuant to subsection (b); and (ii) for each proposed project study and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report, whether the non-Federal interest has demonstrated— (I) that local support exists for the proposed project study or proposed modification to an authorized project or project study (including the surface water storage development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized project study); and (II) the financial ability to provide the required non-Federal cost share. (2) Transparency The Secretary shall include in the annual report, for each project report, proposed project study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included under paragraph (1)(A)— (A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of— (i) the project report; (ii) the proposed project study; (iii) the authorized project study for which the modification is proposed; or (iv) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the water report; (bb) the proposed project study; or (cc) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed; or (II) the proposed modification to a project; (B) a letter or statement of support for the water report, proposed project study, or proposed modification to a project or project study from each associated non-Federal interest; (C) the purpose of the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to a project or project study; (D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of— (i) the proposed modification to an authorized project study; and (ii) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the project report; or (bb) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the change in costs resulting from such modification; or (II) the proposed modification to an authorized project; and (E) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of— (i) the project that is the subject of— (I) the project report; or (II) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the benefits of such modification; or (ii) the proposed modification to an authorized project. (3) Certification The Secretary shall include in the annual report a certification stating that each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report meets the criteria established in paragraph (1)(A). (4) Appendix The Secretary shall include in the annual report an appendix listing the proposals submitted under subsection (b) that were not included in the annual report under paragraph (1)(A) and a description of why the Secretary determined that those proposals did not meet the criteria for inclusion under such paragraph. (d) Special rule for initial annual report Notwithstanding any other deadlines required by this section, the Secretary shall— (1) not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, publish in the Federal Register a notice required by subsection (b)(1); and (2) include in such notice a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of such notice in the Federal Register in order for such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the first annual report developed by the Secretary under this section. (e) Publication Upon submission of an annual report to Congress, the Secretary shall make the annual report publicly available, including through publication on the Internet. (f) Definition In this section, the term project report means a final feasibility report developed under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. IX Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement 901. Short title This title may be cited as the Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act . 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies (a) Conversion and prepayment of contracts (1) Conversion Upon request of the contractor, the Secretary of the Interior shall convert any water service contract in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and between the United States and a water users’ association to allow for prepayment of the repayment contract pursuant to paragraph (2) under mutually agreeable terms and conditions. The manner of conversion under this paragraph shall be as follows: (A) Water service contracts that were entered into under section 9(e) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1196), to be converted under this section shall be converted to repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (B) Water service contracts that were entered under subsection (c)(2) of section 9 of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1194), to be converted under this section shall be converted to a contract under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (2) Prepayment Except for those repayment contracts under which the contractor has previously negotiated for prepayment, all repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(A) shall— (A) provide for the repayment, either in lump sum or by accelerated prepayment, of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific irrigation rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payment not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor, or if made in approximately equal installments, no later than 3 years after the effective date of the repayment contract, such amount to be discounted by ½ the Treasury rate. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days following receipt of request of the contractor; (B) require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law; (C) provide that power revenues will not be available to aid in repayment of construction costs allocated to irrigation under the contract; and (D) continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(d) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (3) Contract requirements Except for those repayment contracts under which the contractor has previously negotiated for prepayment, the following shall apply with regard to all repayment contracts under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B): (A) Provide for the repayment in lump sum of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific municipal and industrial rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payments not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days after receipt of request of contractor. (B) The contract shall require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor, shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law. (C) Continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(c)(1) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (4) Conditions All contracts entered into pursuant to paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) shall— (A) not be adjusted on the basis of the type of prepayment financing used by the water users’ association; (B) conform to any other agreements, such as applicable settlement agreements and new constructed appurtenant facilities; and (C) not modify other water service, repayment, exchange and transfer contractual rights between the water users’ association, and the Bureau of Reclamation, or any rights, obligations, or relationships of the water users’ association and their landowners as provided under State law. (b) Accounting The amounts paid pursuant to subsection (a) shall be subject to adjustment following a final cost allocation by the Secretary of the Interior. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are greater than what has been paid by the contractor, the contractor shall be obligated to pay the remaining allocated costs. The term of such additional repayment contract shall be not less than one year and not more than 10 years, however, mutually agreeable provisions regarding the rate of repayment of such amount may be developed by the parties. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are less than what the contractor has paid, the Secretary shall credit such overpayment as an offset against any outstanding or future obligation of the contractor. (c) Applicability of certain provisions (1) Effect of existing law Upon a contractor’s compliance with and discharge of the obligation of repayment of the construction costs pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A), subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) shall apply to affected lands. (2) Effect of other obligations The obligation of a contractor to repay construction costs or other capitalized costs described in subsection (a)(2)(B), (a)(3)(B), or (b) shall not affect a contractor’s status as having repaid all of the construction costs assignable to the contractor or the applicability of subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) once the amount required to be paid by the contractor under the repayment contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A) have been paid. (d) Effect on existing law not altered Implementation of the provisions of this title shall not alter— (1) the repayment obligation of any water service or repayment contractor receiving water from the same water project, or shift any costs that would otherwise have been properly assignable to the water users’ association identified in subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(3) absent this section, including operation and maintenance costs, construction costs, or other capitalized costs incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act, or to other contractors; and (2) specific requirements for the disposition of amounts received as repayments by the Secretary under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (e) Surface water storage enhancement program (1) In general Except as provided in subsection (d)(2), three years following the date of enactment of this Act, 50 percent of receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this section beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the date of enactment of this Act shall be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account under paragraph (2). (2) Surface storage account The Secretary shall allocate amounts collected under paragraph (1) into the Reclamation Surface Storage Account to fund the construction of surface water storage. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative agreements with water users’ associations for the construction of surface water storage and amounts within the Surface Storage Account may be used to fund such construction. Surface water storage projects that are otherwise not federally authorized shall not be considered Federal facilities as a result of any amounts allocated from the Surface Storage Account for part or all of such facilities. (3) Repayment Amounts used for surface water storage construction from the Account shall be fully reimbursed to the Account consistent with the requirements under Federal reclamation law (the law (the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093))), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) except that all funds reimbursed shall be deposited in the Account established under paragraph (2). (4) Availability of amounts Amounts deposited in the Account under this subsection shall— (A) be made available in accordance with this section, subject to appropriation; and (B) be in addition to amounts appropriated for such purposes under any other provision of law. (5) Purposes of surface water storage Construction of surface water storage under this section shall be made for the following purposes: (A) Increased municipal and industrial water supply. (B) Agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction. (C) Agricultural drainage improvements. (D) Agricultural irrigation. (E) Increased recreation opportunities. (F) Reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this section. (G) Any other purposes consistent with reclamation laws or other Federal law. (f) Definitions For the purposes of this title, the following definitions apply: (1) Account The term Account means the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account established under subsection (e)(2). (2) Construction The term construction means the designing, materials engineering and testing, surveying, and building of surface water storage including additions to existing surface water storage and construction of new surface water storage facilities, exclusive of any Federal statutory or regulatory obligations relating to any permit, review, approval, or other such requirement. (3) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any federally owned facility under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation or any non-Federal facility used for the surface storage and supply of water resources. (4) Treasury rate The term Treasury rate means the 20-year Constant Maturity Treasury (CMT) rate published by the United States Department of the Treasury existing on the effective date of the contract. (5) Water users’ association The term water users’ association means— (A) an entity organized and recognized under State laws that is eligible to enter into contracts with reclamation to receive contract water for delivery to and users of the water and to pay applicable charges; and (B) includes a variety of entities with different names and differing functions, such as associations, conservatory district, irrigation district, municipality, and water project contract unit. X Safety of Dams 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits The Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 is amended— (1) in section 3, by striking Construction and inserting Except as provided in section 5B, construction ; and (2) by inserting after section 5A ( 43 U.S.C. 509 ) the following: 5B. Authorization of additional project benefits Notwithstanding section 3, if the Secretary determines that additional project benefits, including but not limited to additional conservation storage capacity, are feasible and not inconsistent with the purposes of this Act, the Secretary is authorized to develop additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project in conjunction with the Secretary’s activities under section 2 of this Act and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided— (1) the Secretary determines that developing additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities; (2) the feasibility study pertaining to additional project benefits has been authorized pursuant to section 8 of the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965 ( 16 U.S.C. 4601–18 ); and (3) the costs associated with developing the additional project benefits are agreed to in writing between the Secretary and project proponents and shall be allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with all provisions of Federal Reclamation law (the Act of June 17, 1902, 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act. . XI Water Rights Protection 1101. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Rights Protection Act . 1102. Definition of water right In this title, the term water right means any surface or groundwater right filed, permitted, certified, confirmed, decreed, adjudicated, or otherwise recognized by a judicial proceeding or by the State in which the user acquires possession of the water or puts the water to beneficial use, including water rights for federally recognized Indian tribes. 1103. Treatment of water rights The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not— (1) condition or withhold, in whole or in part, the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on— (A) limitation or encumbrance of any water right, or the transfer of any water right (including joint and sole ownership), directly or indirectly to the United States or any other designee; or (B) any other impairment of any water right, in whole or in part, granted or otherwise recognized under State law, by Federal or State adjudication, decree, or other judgment, or pursuant to any interstate water compact; (2) require any water user (including any federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under State law as a condition of the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement; (3) assert jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless jurisdiction is asserted, and any regulatory or policy actions taken pursuant to such assertion are, consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, applicable State laws (including regulations) and policies governing the protection and use of groundwater resources; or (4) infringe on the rights and obligations of a State in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating the waters of the State originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the Federal Government. 1104. Recognition of State authority (a) In general In carrying out section 1103, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall— (1) recognize the longstanding authority of the States relating to evaluating, protecting, allocating, regulating, and adjudicating groundwater by any means, including a rulemaking, permitting, directive, water court adjudication, resource management planning, regional authority, or other policy; and (2) coordinate with the States in the adoption and implementation by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture of any rulemaking, policy, directive, management plan, or other similar Federal action so as to ensure that such actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, State groundwater laws and programs. (b) Effect on state water rights In carrying out this title, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not take any action that adversely affects— (1) any water rights granted by a State; (2) the authority of a State in adjudicating water rights; (3) definitions established by a State with respect to the term beneficial use , priority of water rights , or terms of use ; (4) terms and conditions of groundwater withdrawal, guidance and reporting procedures, and conservation and source protection measures established by a State; (5) the use of groundwater in accordance with State law; or (6) any other rights and obligations of a State established under State law. 1105. Effect of title (a) Effect on existing authority Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing legally recognized authority of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to issue, grant, or condition any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on Federal land subject to the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, respectively. (b) Effect on reclamation contracts Nothing in this title interferes with Bureau of Reclamation contracts entered into pursuant to the reclamation laws. (c) Effect on endangered species act Nothing in this title affects the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (d) Effect on federal reserved water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing or claimed reserved water rights of the Federal Government on land administered by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture. (e) Effect on federal power act Nothing in this title limits or expands authorities under sections 4(e), 10(j), or 18 of the Federal Power Act ( 16 U.S.C. 797(e) , 803(j), 811). (f) Effect on Indian water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any water right or treaty right of any federally recognized Indian tribe.

Passed the House of Representatives July 16, 2015. Karen L. Haas, Clerk.

tv_txt: IIB 114th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 2898 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES July 21, 2015 Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources AN ACT To provide drought relief in the State of California, and for other purposes.

1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 . (b) Table of contents The table of contents of this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings. Sec. 3. Definitions. Title I—ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE Sec. 101. Definitions. Sec. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science. Sec. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management. Title II—ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE Sec. 201. Definitions. Sec. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science. Sec. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River. Sec. 204. Pilot projects to implement CALFED invasive species program. Title III—OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF Sec. 301. Definitions. Sec. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought. Sec. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates. Sec. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio. Sec. 305. Emergency environmental reviews. Sec. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations. Sec. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year. Sec. 308. Expediting water transfers. Sec. 309. Additional emergency consultation. Sec. 310. Additional storage at New Melones. Sec. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir. Sec. 312. Applicants. Sec. 313. San Joaquin River settlement. Sec. 314. Program for water rescheduling. Title IV—CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES Sec. 401. Studies. Sec. 402. Temperance Flat. Sec. 403. CALFED storage accountability. Sec. 404. Water storage project construction. Title V—WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS Sec. 501. Offset for State Water Project. Sec. 502. Area of origin protections. Sec. 503. No redirected adverse impacts. Sec. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors. Sec. 505. Effect on existing obligations. Title VI—MISCELLANEOUS Sec. 601. Authorized service area. Sec. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund. Sec. 603. Water supply accounting. Sec. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan. Sec. 605. Natural and artificially spawned species. Sec. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers. Sec. 607. Basin studies. Sec. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division. Sec. 609. Amendment to purposes. Sec. 610. Amendment to definition. Sec. 611. Report on results of water usage. Sec. 612. Klamath project consultation applicants. Title VII—Water Supply Permitting Act Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Definitions. Sec. 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies. Sec. 704. Bureau responsibilities. Sec. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities. Sec. 706. Funding to process permits. Title VIII—Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Definitions. Sec. 803. Acceleration of studies. Sec. 804. Expedited completion of reports. Sec. 805. Project acceleration. Sec. 806. Annual report to Congress. Title IX—Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Sec. 901. Short title. Sec. 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies. Title X—Safety of Dams Sec. 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits. Title XI—Water Rights Protection Sec. 1101. Short title. Sec. 1102. Definition of water right. Sec. 1103. Treatment of water rights. Sec. 1104. Recognition of State authority. Sec. 1105. Effect of title. 2. Findings Congress finds as follows: (1) As established in the Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by the Governor of the State on January 17, 2014, the State is experiencing record dry conditions. (2) Extremely dry conditions have persisted in the State since 2012, and the drought conditions are likely to persist into the future. (3) The water supplies of the State are at record-low levels, as indicated by the fact that all major Central Valley Project reservoir levels were at 20–35 percent of capacity as of September 25, 2014. (4) The lack of precipitation has been a significant contributing factor to the 6,091 fires experienced in the State as of September 15, 2014, and which covered nearly 400,000 acres. (5) According to a study released by the University of California, Davis in July 2014, the drought has led to the fallowing of 428,000 acres of farmland, loss of $810 million in crop revenue, loss of $203 million in dairy and other livestock value, and increased groundwater pumping costs by $454 million. The statewide economic costs are estimated to be $2.2 billion, with over 17,000 seasonal and part-time agricultural jobs lost. (6) CVPIA Level II water deliveries to refuges have also been reduced by 25 percent in the north of Delta region, and by 35 percent in the south of Delta region. (7) Only one-sixth of the usual acres of rice fields are being flooded this fall, which leads to a significant decline in habitat for migratory birds and an increased risk of disease at the remaining wetlands due to overcrowding of such birds. (8) The drought of 2013 through 2014 constitutes a serious emergency that poses immediate and severe risks to human life and safety and to the environment throughout the State. (9) The serious emergency described in paragraph (4) requires— (A) immediate and credible action that respects the complexity of the water system of the State and the importance of the water system to the entire State; and (B) policies that do not pit stakeholders against one another, which history shows only leads to costly litigation that benefits no one and prevents any real solutions. (10) Data on the difference between water demand and reliable water supplies for various regions of California south of the Delta, including the San Joaquin Valley, indicate there is a significant annual gap between reliable water supplies to meet agricultural, municipal and industrial, groundwater, and refuges water needs within the Delta Division, San Luis Unit and Friant Division of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and the demands of those areas. This gap varies depending on the methodology of the analysis performed, but can be represented in the following ways: (A) For Central Valley Project South-of-Delta water service contractors, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference in the amount of water available for allocation versus the maximum contract quantity, then the water supply deficits that have developed from 1992 to 2014 as a result of legislative and regulatory changes besides natural variations in hydrology during this timeframe range between 720,000 and 1,100,000 acre-feet. (B) For Central Valley Project and State Water Project water service contractors south of the Delta and north of the Tehachapi mountain range, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference between reliable water supplies, including maximum water contract deliveries, safe yield of groundwater, safe yield of local and surface supplies and long-term contracted water transfers, and water demands, including water demands from agriculture, municipal and industrial and refuge contractors, then the water supply deficit ranges between approximately 2,500,000 to 2,700,000 acre-feet. (11) Data of pumping activities at the Central Valley Project and State Water Project delta pumps identifies that, on average from Water Year 2009 to Water Year 2014, take of Delta smelt is 80 percent less than allowable take levels under the biological opinion issued December 15, 2008. (12) Data of field sampling activities of the Interagency Ecological Program located in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Estuary identifies that, on average from 2005 to 2013, the program takes 3,500 delta smelt during annual surveys with an authorized take level of 33,480 delta smelt annually—according to the biological opinion issued December 9, 1997. (13) In 2015, better information exists than was known in 2008 concerning conditions and operations that may or may not lead to high salvage events that jeopardize the fish populations, and what alternative management actions can be taken to avoid jeopardy. (14) Alternative management strategies, removing non-native species, enhancing habitat, monitoring fish movement and location in real-time, and improving water quality in the Delta can contribute significantly to protecting and recovering these endangered fish species, and at potentially lower costs to water supplies. (15) Resolution of fundamental policy questions concerning the extent to which application of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 affects the operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project is the responsibility of Congress. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Delta The term Delta means the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, as defined in sections 12220 and 29101 of the California Public Resources Code. (2) Export pumping rates The term export pumping rates means the rates of pumping at the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant and the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant, in the southern Delta. (3) Listed fish species The term listed fish species means listed salmonid species and the Delta smelt. (4) Listed salmonid species The term listed salmonid species means natural origin steelhead, natural origin genetic spring run Chinook, and genetic winter run Chinook salmon including hatchery steelhead or salmon populations within the evolutionary significant unit (ESU) or distinct population segment (DPS). (5) Negative impact on the long-term survival The term negative impact on the long-term survival means to reduce appreciably the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. (6) OMR The term OMR means the Old and Middle River in the Delta. (7) OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second The term OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second means Old and Middle River flow of negative 5,000 cubic feet per second as described in— (A) the smelt biological opinion; and (B) the salmonid biological opinion. (8) Salmonid biological opinion The term salmonid biological opinion means the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009. (9) Smelt biological opinion The term smelt biological opinion means the biological opinion on the Long-Term Operational Criteria and Plan for coordination of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008. (10) State The term State means the State of California. I ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE 101. Definitions In this title: (1) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (2) Delta smelt The term Delta smelt means the fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science (a) Review and modification Not later than October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Director, in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to complete a review and, modify the method used to calculate the incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion that takes into account all life stages, among other considerations— (1) salvage information collected since at least 1993; (2) updated or more recently developed statistical models; (3) updated scientific and commercial data; and (4) the most recent information regarding the environmental factors affecting Delta smelt salvage. (b) Modified incidental take level Unless the Director determines in writing that one or more of the requirements described in paragraphs (1) through (4) are not appropriate, the modified incidental take level described in subsection (a) shall— (1) be normalized for the abundance of prespawning adult Delta smelt using the Fall Midwater Trawl Index or other index; (2) be based on a simulation of the salvage that would have occurred from 1993 through 2012 if OMR flow has been consistent with the smelt biological opinions; (3) base the simulation on a correlation between annual salvage rates and historic water clarity and OMR flow during the adult salvage period; and (4) set the incidental take level as the 80 percent upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management (a) In general The Director shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to implement, continuously evaluate, and refine or amend, as appropriate, the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the smelt biological opinion, and any successor opinions or court order. The Secretary shall make all significant decisions under the smelt biological opinion, or any successor opinions that affect Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations, in writing, and shall document the significant facts upon which such decisions are made, consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code. (b) Increased Monitoring To Inform Real-Time Operations The Secretary shall conduct additional surveys, on an annual basis at the appropriate time of the year based on environmental conditions, in collaboration with other Delta science interests. (1) In implementing this section, the Secretary shall— (A) use the most accurate survey methods available for the detection of Delta smelt to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity, or other environmental factors that may influence salvage rate; and (B) use results from appropriate survey methods for the detection of Delta smelt to determine how the Central Valley Project and State Water Project may be operated more efficiently to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (2) During the period beginning on December 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, and in each successive December through March period, if suspended sediment loads enter the Delta from the Sacramento River and the suspended sediment loads appear likely to raise turbidity levels in the Old River north of the export pumps from values below 12 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) to values above 12 NTU, the Secretary shall— (A) conduct daily monitoring using appropriate survey methods at locations including, but not limited to, the vicinity of Station 902 to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are moving with turbidity toward the export pumps; and (B) use results from the monitoring surveys referenced in paragraph (A) to determine how increased trawling can inform daily real-time Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (c) Periodic review of monitoring Within 12 months of the date of enactment of this title, and at least once every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall— (1) evaluate whether the monitoring program under subsection (b), combined with other monitoring programs for the Delta, is providing sufficient data to inform Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; and (2) determine whether the monitoring efforts should be changed in the short or long term to provide more useful data. (d) Delta smelt distribution study (1) In general No later than January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Secretary, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Department of Water Resources, public water agencies, and other interested entities, shall implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and the types of habitat occupied by Delta smelt during all life stages. (2) Sampling The Delta smelt distribution study shall, at a minimum— (A) include recording water quality and tidal data; (B) be designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, habitat use, and movement throughout the Delta, Suisun Marsh, and other areas occupied by the Delta smelt during all seasons; (C) consider areas not routinely sampled by existing monitoring programs, including wetland channels, near-shore water, depths below 35 feet, and shallow water; and (D) use survey methods, including sampling gear, best suited to collect the most accurate data for the type of sampling or monitoring. (e) Scientifically supported implementation of OMR flow requirements In implementing the provisions of the smelt biological opinion, or any successor biological opinion or court order, pertaining to management of reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers, the Secretary shall— (1) consider the relevant provisions of the biological opinion or any successor biological opinion; (2) to maximize Central Valley project and State Water Project water supplies, manage export pumping rates to achieve a reverse OMR flow rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second unless information developed by the Secretary under paragraphs (3) and (4) leads the Secretary to reasonably conclude that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. If information available to the Secretary indicates that a reverse OMR flow rate more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second can be established without an imminent negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, the Secretary shall manage export pumping rates to achieve that more negative OMR flow rate; (3) document in writing any significant facts about real-time conditions relevant to the determinations of OMR reverse flow rates, including— (A) whether targeted real-time fish monitoring in the Old River pursuant to this section, including monitoring in the vicinity of Station 902, indicates that a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt is imminent; and (B) whether near-term forecasts with available salvage models show under prevailing conditions that OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second or higher will cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; (4) show in writing that any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, including an explanation of the data examined and the connection between those data and the choice made, after considering— (A) the distribution of Delta smelt throughout the Delta; (B) the potential effects of documented, quantified entrainment on subsequent Delta smelt abundance; (C) the water temperature; (D) other significant factors relevant to the determination; and (E) whether any alternative measures could have a substantially lesser water supply impact; and (5) for any subsequent biological opinion, make the showing required in paragraph (4) for any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than the most negative limit in the biological opinion if the most negative limit in the biological opinion is more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second. (f) Memorandum of Understanding No later than December 1, 2015, the Commissioner and the Director will execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. If that MOU alters any procedures set out in the biological opinion, there will be no need to reinitiate consultation if those changes will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and the implementation of the MOU would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Any change to procedures that does not create a significant negative impact on the long-term survival to listed species will not alter application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion under section 7(o)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (g) Calculation of reverse flow in OMR Within 90 days of the enactment of this title, the Secretary is directed, in consultation with the California Department of Water Resources to revise the method used to calculate reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions, for the purpose of increasing Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies. The method of calculating reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers shall be reevaluated not less than every five years thereafter to achieve maximum export pumping rates within limits established by the smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions. II ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE 201. Definitions In this title: (1) Assistant administrator The term Assistant Administrator means the Assistant Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries. (2) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Commerce. (3) Other affected interests The term other affected interests means the State of California, Indian tribes, subdivisions of the State of California, public water agencies and those who benefit directly and indirectly from the operations of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science (a) General directive The reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion allows for and anticipates adjustments in Central Valley Project and State Water Project operation parameters to reflect the best scientific and commercial data currently available, and authorizes efforts to test and evaluate improvements in operations that will meet applicable regulatory requirements and maximize Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies and reliability. Implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion shall be adjusted accordingly as new scientific and commercial data are developed. The Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall fully utilize these authorities as described below. (b) Annual reviews of certain Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations No later than December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter: (1) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments to the initiation of Action IV.2.3 as set forth in the Biological Opinion and Conference Opinion on the Long-Term Operations of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation, issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, pertaining to negative OMR flows, subject to paragraph (5). (2) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments in the timing, triggers or other operational details relating to the implementation of pumping restrictions in Action IV.2.1 pertaining to the inflow to export ratio, subject to paragraph (5). (3) Pursuant to the consultation and assessments carried out under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall jointly make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior and to the Secretary on adjustments to project operations that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project and are consistent with the requirements of applicable law and as further described in subsection (c). (4) The Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall direct the Commissioner and Assistant Administrator to implement recommended adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations for which the conditions under subsection (c) are met. (5) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall review and identify adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations with water supply restrictions in any successor biological opinion to the salmonid biological opinion, applying the provisions of this section to those water supply restrictions where there are references to Actions IV.2.1 and IV.2.3. (c) Implementation of operational adjustments After reviewing the recommendations under subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary shall direct the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator to implement those operational adjustments, or any combination, for which, in aggregate— (1) the net effect on listed species is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, taking into account both— (A) efforts to minimize the adverse effects of the adjustment to project operations; and (B) whatever additional actions or measures may be implemented in conjunction with the adjustments to operations to offset the adverse effects to listed species, consistent with (d), that are in excess of the adverse effects of the underlying operational parameters, if any; and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be reasonably expected to fall within the incidental take authorizations. (d) Evaluation of offsetting measures When examining and identifying opportunities to offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall take into account the potential species survival improvements that are likely to result from other measures which, if implemented in conjunction with such adjustments, would offset adverse effects, if any, of the adjustments. When evaluating offsetting measures, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall consider the type, timing and nature of the adverse effects, if any, to specific species and ensure that the measures likely provide equivalent overall benefits to the listed species in the aggregate, as long as the change will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (e) Framework for examining opportunities To minimize or offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations Not later than December 31, 2015, and every five years thereafter, the Assistant Administrator shall, in collaboration with the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, based on the best scientific and commercial data available and for each listed salmonid species, issue estimates of the increase in through-Delta survival the Secretary expects to be achieved— (1) through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3 as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (2) through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1 as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (3) through physical habitat restoration improvements; (4) through predation control programs; (5) through the installation of temporary barriers, the management of Cross Channel Gates operations, and other projects affecting flow in the Delta; (6) through salvaging fish that have been entrained near the entrance to Clifton Court Forebay; (7) through any other management measures that may provide equivalent or better protections for listed species while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species; and (8) through development and implementation of conservation hatchery programs for salmon and steelhead to aid in the recovery of listed salmon and steelhead species. (f) Survival estimates (1) To the maximum extent practicable, the Assistant Administrator shall make quantitative estimates of survival such as a range of percentage increases in through-Delta survival that could result from the management measures, and if the scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates, shall do so on qualitative terms based upon the best available science. (2) If the Assistant Administrator provides qualitative survival estimates for a species resulting from one or more management measures, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent feasible, rank the management measures described in subsection (e) in terms of their most likely expected contribution to increased through-Delta survival relative to the other measures. (3) If at the time the Assistant Administrator conducts the reviews under subsection (b), the Secretary has not issued an estimate of increased through-Delta survival from different management measures pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary shall compare the protections to the species from different management measures based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time. (g) Comparison of adverse consequences for alternative management measures of equivalent protection for a species (1) For the purposes of this subsection and subsection (c)— (A) the alternative management measure or combination of alternative management measures identified in paragraph (2) shall be known as the equivalent alternative measure ; (B) the existing measure or measures identified in subparagraphs (2) (A), (B), (C), or (D) shall be known as the equivalent existing measure ; and (C) an equivalent increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species shall mean an increase in through-Delta survival rates that is equivalent when considering the change in through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species in the aggregate, and not the same change for each individual species, as long as the change in survival rates will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) As part of the reviews of project operations pursuant to subsection (b), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether any alternative management measures or combination of alternative management measures listed in subsection (e) (3) through (8) would provide an increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species that is equivalent to the increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species from the following: (A) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable. (B) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.3 that would provide additional water supplies, other than that described in subparagraph (A). (C) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641. (D) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.1 that would reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project, other than that described in subparagraph (C). (3) If the Assistant Administrator identifies an equivalent alternative measure pursuant to paragraph (2), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether— (A) it is technically feasible and within Federal jurisdiction to implement the equivalent alternative measure; (B) the State of California, or subdivision thereof, or local agency with jurisdiction has certified in writing within 10 calendar days to the Assistant Administrator that it has the authority and capability to implement the pertinent equivalent alternative measure; or (C) the adverse consequences of doing so are less than the adverse consequences of the equivalent existing measure, including a concise evaluation of the adverse consequences to other affected interests. (4) If the Assistant Administrator makes the determinations in subparagraph (3)(A) or (3)(B), the Commissioner shall adjust project operations to implement the equivalent alternative measure in place of the equivalent existing measure in order to increase export rates of pumping to the greatest extent possible while maintaining a net combined effect of equivalent through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species. (h) Tracking Adverse Effects Beyond the Range of Effects Accounted for in the Salmonid Biological Opinion and Coordinated Operation with the Delta Smelt Biological Opinion (1) Among the adjustments to the project operations considered through the adaptive management process under this section, the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall— (A) evaluate the effects on listed salmonid species and water supply of the potential adjustment to operational criteria described in subparagraph (B); and (B) consider requiring that before some or all of the provisions of Actions IV.2.1. or IV.2.3 are imposed in any specific instance, the Assistant Administrator show that the implementation of these provisions in that specific instance is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) The Assistant Administrator, the Director, and the Commissioner, in coordination with State officials as appropriate, shall establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions, in order to take advantage of opportunities to provide additional water supplies from the coordinated implementation of the biological opinions. (3) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall document the effects of any adaptive management decisions related to the coordinated operation of the smelt and salmonid biological opinions that prioritizes the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other. (i) Real-Time Monitoring and Management Notwithstanding the calendar based triggers described in the salmonid biological opinion Reasonable and Prudent Alternative (RPA), the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall not limit OMR reverse flow to −5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicate that this OMR flow limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (j) Evaluation and implementation of management measures If the quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established by the Secretary for the adjustments in subsection (b)(2) exceed the through-Delta survival established for the RPAs, the Secretary shall evaluate and implement the management measures in subsection (b)(2) as a prerequisite to implementing the RPAs contained in the Salmonid Biological Opinion. (k) Accordance with other law Consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code, decisions of the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner described in subsections (b) through (j) shall be made in writing, on the basis of best scientific and commercial data currently available, and shall include an explanation of the data examined at the connection between those data and the decisions made. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River (a) Establishment of nonnative predator fish removal program The Secretary and the districts, in consultation with the Director, shall jointly develop and conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. The program shall— (1) be scientifically based; (2) include methods to quantify the number and size of predator fish removed each year, the impact of such removal on the overall abundance of predator fish, and the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish found in the Stanislaus River by, among other things, evaluating the number of juvenile anadromous fish that migrate past the rotary screw trap located at Caswell; (3) among other methods, use wire fyke trapping, portable resistance board weirs, and boat electrofishing; and (4) be implemented as quickly as possible following the issuance of all necessary scientific research. (b) Management The management of the program shall be the joint responsibility of the Secretary and the districts. Such parties shall work collaboratively to ensure the performance of the program, and shall discuss and agree upon, among other things, changes in the structure, management, personnel, techniques, strategy, data collection, reporting, and conduct of the program. (c) Conduct (1) In general By agreement between the Secretary and the districts, the program may be conducted by their own personnel, qualified private contractors hired by the districts, personnel of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, or a combination thereof. (2) Participation by the national marine fisheries service If the districts elect to conduct the program using their own personnel or qualified private contractors hired by them in accordance with paragraph (1), the Secretary may assign an employee of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, to be present for all activities performed in the field. Such presence shall ensure compliance with the agreed-upon elements specified in subsection (b). The districts shall pay the cost of such participation in accordance with subsection (d). (3) Timing of election The districts shall notify the Secretary of their election on or before October 15 of each calendar year of the program. Such an election shall apply to the work performed in the subsequent calendar year. (d) Funding (1) In general The districts shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the program. (2) Contributed funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the districts to carry out activities under the program. (3) Estimation of cost On or before December 1 of each year of the program, the Secretary shall submit to the districts an estimate of the cost to be incurred by the National Marine Fisheries Service for the program in the following calendar year, if any, including the cost of any data collection and posting under subsection (e). If an amount equal to the estimate is not provided through contributions pursuant to paragraph (2) before December 31 of that year— (A) the Secretary shall have no obligation to conduct the program activities otherwise scheduled for such following calendar year until such amount is contributed by the districts; and (B) the districts may not conduct any aspect of the program until such amount is contributed by the districts. (4) Accounting On or before September 1 of each year, the Secretary shall provide to the districts an accounting of the costs incurred by the Secretary for the program in the preceding calendar year. If the amount contributed by the districts pursuant to paragraph (2) for that year was greater than the costs incurred by the Secretary, the Secretary shall— (A) apply the excess contributions to costs of activities to be performed by the Secretary under the program, if any, in the next calendar year; or (B) if no such activities are to be performed, repay the excess contribution to the districts. (e) Posting and evaluation On or before the 15th day of each month, the Secretary shall post on the Internet website of the National Marine Fisheries Service a tabular summary of the raw data collected under the program in the preceding month. (f) Implementation The program is hereby found to be consistent with the requirements of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). No provision, plan or definition established or required by the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) shall be used to prohibit the imposition of the program, or to prevent the accomplishment of its goals. (g) Treatment of striped bass For purposes of the application of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) with respect to the program, striped bass shall not be treated as anadromous fish. (h) Definition For the purposes of this section, the term districts means the Oakdale Irrigation District and the South San Joaquin Irrigation District, California. 204. Pilot projects to implement CALFED invasive species program (a) In general Not later than January 1, 2017, the Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Secretary of Commerce, the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and other relevant agencies and interested parties, shall begin pilot projects to implement the invasive species control program authorized pursuant to section 103(d)(6)(A)(iv) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1690). (b) Requirements The pilot projects shall— (1) seek to reduce invasive aquatic vegetation, predators, and other competitors which contribute to the decline of native listed pelagic and anadromous species that occupy the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta; and (2) remove, reduce, or control the effects of species, including Asiatic clams, silversides, gobies, Brazilian water weed, water hyacinth, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, white and channel catfish, and brown bullheads. (c) Sunset The authorities provided under this subsection shall expire seven years after the Secretaries commence implementation of the pilot projects pursuant to subsection (a). (d) Emergency environmental reviews To expedite the environmentally beneficial programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species, the Secretaries shall consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for the projects pursuant to subsection (a). III OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF 301. Definitions In this title: (1) Central valley project The term Central Valley Project has the meaning given the term in section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4707). (2) Reclamation project The term Reclamation Project means a project constructed pursuant to the authorities of the reclamation laws and whose facilities are wholly or partially located in the State. (3) Secretaries The term Secretaries means— (A) the Secretary of Agriculture; (B) the Secretary of Commerce; and (C) the Secretary of the Interior. (4) State water project The term State Water Project means the water project described by California Water Code section 11550 et seq. and operated by the California Department of Water Resources. (5) State The term State means the State of California. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought (a) Water supplies For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries shall provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or district who receive Central Valley Project water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements entered into prior to or after the date of enactment of this title; State Water Project contractors, and any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in the State, by approving, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations), projects and operations to provide additional water supplies as quickly as practicable based on available information to address the emergency conditions. (b) Administration In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) issue all necessary permit decisions under the authority of the Secretaries not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretaries receive a completed application from the State to place and use temporary barriers or operable gates in Delta channels to improve water quantity and quality for the State Water Project and the Central Valley Project south of Delta water contractors and other water users, on the condition that the barriers or operable gates— (A) do not result in a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of listed species within the Delta and provide benefits or have a neutral impact on in-Delta water user water quality; and (B) are designed so that formal consultations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536 ) are not necessary; (2) require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Commissioner of Reclamation— (A) to complete, not later than 30 days after the date on which the Director or the Commissioner receives a complete written request for water transfer, all requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) necessary to make final permit decisions on the request; and (B) to approve any water transfer request described in subparagraph (A) to maximize the quantity of water supplies available for nonhabitat uses, on the condition that actions associated with the water transfer comply with applicable Federal laws (including regulations); (3) adopt a 1:1 inflow to export ratio, as measured as a 3-day running average at Vernalis during the period beginning on April 1, and ending on May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); provided that the 1:1 inflow to export ratio shall apply for the increment of increased flow of the San Joaquin River resulting from the voluntary sale, transfers, or exchanges of water from agencies with rights to divert water from the San Joaquin River or its tributaries and provided that the movement of the acquired, transferred, or exchanged water through the Delta consistent with the Central Valley Project’s and the State Water Project’s permitted water rights and provided that movement of the Central Valley Project water is consistent with the requirements of section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act; and (4) allow and facilitate, consistent with existing priorities, water transfers through the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 provided water transfers comply with State law, including the California Environmental Quality Act. (c) Accelerated project decision and elevation (1) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries shall use the expedited procedures under this subsection to make final decisions relating to a Federal project or operation, or to local or State projects or operations that require decisions by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Commerce to provide additional water supplies if the project’s or operation’s purpose is to provide relief for emergency drought conditions pursuant to subsections (a) and (b). (2) Request for resolution (A) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries referenced in paragraph (1), or the head of another Federal agency responsible for carrying out a review of a project, as applicable, the Secretary of the Interior shall convene a final project decision meeting with the heads of all relevant Federal agencies to decide whether to approve a project to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. (B) Meeting The Secretary of the Interior shall convene a meeting requested under subparagraph (A) not later than 7 days after the date on which the meeting request is received. (3) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior shall notify the heads of all relevant Federal agencies of the request, including information on the project to be reviewed and the date of the meeting. (4) Decision Not later than 10 days after the date on which a meeting is requested under paragraph (2), the head of the relevant Federal agency shall issue a final decision on the project, subject to subsection (e)(2). (5) Meeting convened by secretary The Secretary of the Interior may convene a final project decision meeting under this subsection at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under paragraph (2). (d) Application To the extent that a Federal agency, other than the agencies headed by the Secretaries, has a role in approving projects described in subsections (a) and (b), this section shall apply to those Federal agencies. (e) Limitation Nothing in this section authorizes the Secretaries to approve projects— (1) that would otherwise require congressional authorization; or (2) without following procedures required by applicable law. (f) Drought Plan For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior, in consultation with appropriate State officials, shall develop a drought operations plan that is consistent with the provisions of this Act including the provisions that are intended to provide additional water supplies that could be of assistance during the current drought. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates (a) In general The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall jointly— (1) authorize and implement activities to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the United States Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of the drought emergency declaration of the State, and for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, consistent with operational criteria and monitoring criteria set forth into the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014 (or a successor order) and other authorizations associated with it; (2) with respect to the operation of the Delta Cross Channel Gates described in paragraph (1), collect data on the impact of that operation on— (A) species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); (B) water quality; and (C) water supply; (3) collaborate with the California Department of Water Resources to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with Delta Cross Channel Gate diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities carried out during 2014 and 2015; (4) evaluate the combined salmonid survival in light of activities carried out pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (3) in deciding how to operate the Delta Cross Channel gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (5) not later than May 15, 2016, submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate a notice and explanation on the extent to which the gates are able to remain open. (b) Recommendations After assessing the information collected under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall recommend revisions to the operation of the Delta Cross-Channel Gates, to the Central Valley Project, and to the State Water Project, including, if appropriate, any reasonable and prudent alternative contained in the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation shall continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to the California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641— (1) to operate to a 35-percent Export/Inflow ratio with a 3-day averaging period on the rising limb of a Delta inflow hydrograph; and (2) to operate to a 14-day averaging period on the falling limb of the Delta inflow hydrograph. 305. Emergency environmental reviews (a) NEPA compliance To minimize the time spent carrying out environmental reviews and to deliver water quickly that is needed to address emergency drought conditions in the State during the duration of an emergency drought declaration, the Secretaries shall, in carrying out this Act, consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) during the emergency. (b) Determinations For the purposes of this section, a Secretary may deem a project to be in compliance with all necessary environmental regulations and reviews if the Secretary determines that the immediate implementation of the project is necessary to address— (1) human health and safety; or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25 percent or more of its tax revenue used to support public services including schools, fire or police services, city or county health facilities, unemployment services or other associated social services. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations The Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) in coordination with the California Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, implement offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) due to activities carried out pursuant this Act, as determined by the Secretaries; (2) manage reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers at −6,100 cubic feet per second if real-time monitoring indicates that flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second or more negative can be established for specific periods without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, or if real-time monitoring does not support flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second than manage OMR flows at −5,000 cubic feet per second subject to section 103(e) (3) and (4); and (3) use all available scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of the Bureau of Reclamation, State, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year (a) In general Consistent with avoiding a significant negative impact on the long-term survival in the short term upon listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and other environmental protections under subsection (e), the Secretaries shall authorize the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project, combined, to operate at levels that result in negative OMR flows at −7,500 cubic feet per second (based on United States Geological Survey gauges on Old and Middle Rivers) daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1 as described in subsection (c). (b) Days of temporary operational flexibility The temporary operational flexibility described in subsection (a) shall be authorized on days that the California Department of Water Resources determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at, or above, 17,000 cubic feet per second as measured at the Sacramento River at Freeport gauge maintained by the United States Geologic Survey. (c) Compliance with Endangered Species Act authorizations In carrying out this section, the Secretaries may continue to impose any requirements under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions during any period of temporary operational flexibility as they determine are reasonably necessary to avoid an additional significant negative impacts on the long-term survival of a listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, provided that the requirements imposed do not reduce water supplies available for the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (d) Other environmental protections (1) State law The Secretaries’ actions under this section shall be consistent with applicable regulatory requirements under State law. (2) First sediment flush During the first flush of sediment out of the Delta in each water year, and provided that such determination is based upon objective evidence, OMR flow may be managed at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at Central Valley Project and State Water Project pumping plants. (3) Applicability of opinion This section shall not affect the application of the salmonid biological opinion from April 1 to May 31, unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that some or all of such applicable requirements may be adjusted during this time period to provide emergency water supply relief without resulting in additional adverse effects beyond those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In addition to any other actions to benefit water supply, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce shall consider allowing through-Delta water transfers to occur during this period if they can be accomplished consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. Water transfers solely or exclusively through the State Water Project are not required to be consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. (4) Monitoring During operations under this section, the Commissioner of Reclamation, in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, shall undertake a monitoring program and other data gathering to ensure incidental take levels are not exceeded, and to identify potential negative impacts and actions, if any, necessary to mitigate impacts of the temporary operational flexibility to species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (e) Technical adjustments to target period If, before temporary operational flexibility has been implemented on 56 cumulative days, the Secretaries operate the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project combined at levels that result in OMR flows less negative than −7,500 cubic feet per second during days of temporary operational flexibility as defined in subsection (c), the duration of such operation shall not be counted toward the 56 cumulative days specified in subsection (a). (f) Emergency consultation; effect on running averages (1) If necessary to implement the provisions of this section, the Commissioner is authorized to take any action necessary to implement this section for up to 56 cumulative days. If during the 56 cumulative days the Commissioner determines that actions necessary to implement this section will exceed 56 days, the Commissioner shall use the emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and its implementing regulation at section 402.05 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, to temporarily adjust the operating criteria under the biological opinions— (A) solely for extending beyond the 56 cumulative days for additional days of temporary operational flexibility— (i) no more than necessary to achieve the purposes of this section consistent with the environmental protections in subsections (d) and (e); and (ii) including, as appropriate, adjustments to ensure that the actual flow rates during the periods of temporary operational flexibility do not count toward the 5-day and 14-day running averages of tidally filtered daily OMR flow requirements under the biological opinions, or (B) for other adjustments to operating criteria or to take other urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner. (2) Following the conclusion of the 56 cumulative days of temporary operational flexibility, or the extended number of days covered by the emergency consultation procedures, the Commissioner shall not reinitiate consultation on these adjusted operations, and no mitigation shall be required, if the effects on listed fish species of these operations under this section remain within the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). If the Commissioner reinitiates consultation, no mitigation measures shall be required. (g) Level of detail required for analysis In articulating the determinations required under this section, the Secretaries shall fully satisfy the requirements herein but shall not be expected to provide a greater level of supporting detail for the analysis than feasible to provide within the short timeframe permitted for timely decisionmaking in response to changing conditions in the Delta. 308. Expediting water transfers (a) In general Section 3405(a) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4709(a)) is amended— (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (3) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; (2) in the matter preceding paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in the first sentence, by striking In order to and inserting the following: (1) In general In order to ; and (B) in the second sentence, by striking Except as provided herein and inserting the following: (3) Terms Except as otherwise provided in this section ; (3) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as so designated) the following: (2) Expedited transfer of water The Secretary shall take all necessary actions to facilitate and expedite transfers of Central Valley Project water in accordance with— (A) this Act; (B) any other applicable provision of the reclamation laws; and (C) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). ; (4) in paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking to combination and inserting or combination ; and (B) by striking 3405(a)(2) of this title each place it appears and inserting (5) ; (5) in paragraph (5) (as so designated), by adding at the end the following: (E) The contracting district from which the water is coming, the agency, or the Secretary shall determine if a written transfer proposal is complete within 45 days after the date of submission of the proposal. If the contracting district or agency or the Secretary determines that the proposal is incomplete, the district or agency or the Secretary shall state with specificity what must be added to or revised for the proposal to be complete. ; and (6) in paragraph (6) (as so designated), by striking 3405(a)(1)(A)–(C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of this title and inserting (A) through (C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of paragraph (4) . (b) Conforming amendments The Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) is amended— (1) in section 3407(c)(1) (106 Stat. 4726), by striking 3405(a)(1)(C) and inserting 3405(a)(4)(C) ; and (2) in section 3408(i)(1) (106 Stat. 4729), by striking 3405(a)(1) (A) and (J) of this title and inserting subparagraphs (A) and (J) of section 3405(a)(4) . 309. Additional emergency consultation For adjustments to operating criteria other than under section 308 of this Act or to take urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner of Reclamation, no mitigation measures shall be required during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, and any mitigation measures imposed must be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species. 310. Additional storage at New Melones The Commissioner of Reclamation is directed to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in the Stanislaus River Basin. All such programs and projects shall be implemented according to all applicable laws and regulations. The source of water for any such storage program at New Melones Reservoir shall be made available under a valid water right, consistent with the State of California water transfer guidelines and any other applicable State water law. The Commissioner shall inform the Congress within 18 months setting forth the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under this program, including proposals received by the Commissioner from interested parties for the purpose of this section. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir The Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, shall expedite evaluation, completion and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for Central Valley Project American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry-years under current and future demand and climate change conditions. 312. Applicants In the event that the Bureau of Reclamation or another Federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, or any part thereof, the State Water Project contractors and the Central Valley Project contractors will be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. 313. San Joaquin River settlement (a) California State law satisfied by warm water fishery (1) In general Sections 5930 through 5948 of the California Fish and Game Code, and all applicable Federal laws, including the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act ( Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658–LKK/GGH), shall be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford. (2) Definition of warm water fishery For the purposes of this section, the term warm water fishery means a water system that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon (including all subspecies) and trout (including all subspecies). (b) Repeal of the San Joaquin River settlement As of the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall cease any action to implement the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act (subtitle A of title X of Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658 LKK/GGH). 314. Program for water rescheduling By December 31, 2015, the Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, and refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project contracts, from one year to the next; provided, that the program is consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines as utilized by the Bureau of Reclamation for rescheduling water for Central Valley Project water service contractors that are located South of the Delta. IV CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES 401. Studies The Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, shall— (1) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(I) and (ii)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1684) and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2015; (2) complete the feasibility study described in clause (i)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (3) complete a publicly available draft of the feasibility study described in clause (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (4) complete the feasibility study described in clause (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such study to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2017; (5) complete the feasibility study described in section 103(f)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1694) and submit such study to the appropriate Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2017; (6) provide a progress report on the status of the feasibility studies referred to in paragraphs (1) through (3) to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and each 180 days thereafter until December 31, 2017, as applicable. The report shall include timelines for study completion, draft environmental impact statements, final environmental impact statements, and Records of Decision; (7) in conducting any feasibility study under this Act, the reclamation laws, the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act ( 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq. ), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), and other applicable law, for the purposes of determining feasibility the Secretary shall document, delineate, and publish costs directly relating to the engineering and construction of a water storage project separately from the costs resulting from regulatory compliance or the construction of auxiliary facilities necessary to achieve regulatory compliance; and (8) communicate, coordinate and cooperate with public water agencies that contract with the United States for Central Valley Project water and that are expected to participate in the cost pools that will be created for the projects proposed in the feasibility studies under this section. 402. Temperance Flat (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section: (1) Project The term Project means the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River. (2) RMP The term RMP means the document titled Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, dated December 2014. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Applicability of RMP The RMP and findings related thereto shall have no effect on or applicability to the Secretary’s determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to— (1) the Project; or (2) actions taken by the Secretary pursuant to section 103(d)(1)(A)(ii)(II) of the Bay-Delta Authorization Act (title I of Public Law 108–361 ). (c) Duties of secretary upon determination of feasibility If the Secretary finds the Project to be feasible, the Secretary shall manage the land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ) in a manner that does not impede any environmental reviews, preconstruction, construction, or other activities of the Project, regardless of whether or not the Secretary submits any official recommendation to Congress under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. (d) Reserved water rights Effective December 22, 2014, there shall be no Federal reserved water rights to any segment of the San Joaquin River related to the Project as a result of any designation made under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ). 403. CALFED storage accountability If the Secretary of the Interior fails to provide the feasibility studies described in section 401 to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate by the times prescribed, the Secretary shall notify each committee chair individually in person on the status of each project once a month until the feasibility study for that project is provided to Congress. 404. Water storage project construction (a) Partnership and agreements The Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, may partner or enter into an agreement on the water storage projects identified in section 103(d)(1) of the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act ( Public Law 108–361 ) (and Acts supplemental and amendatory to the Act) with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to State law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region, to advance those projects. (b) Authorization for project If the Secretary determines a project described in section 402(a)(1) and (2) is feasible, the Secretary is authorized to carry out the project in a manner that is substantially in accordance with the recommended plan, and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided that no Federal funding shall be used to construct the project. V WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS 501. Offset for State Water Project (a) Implementation impacts The Secretary of the Interior shall confer with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in connection with the implementation of this Act on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the State Water Project issued pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1. (b) Additional yield If, as a result of the application of this Act, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife— (1) revokes the consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 that are applicable to the State Water Project; (2) amends or issues one or more new consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion; or (3) requires take authorization under California Fish and Game Code section 2081 for operation of the State Water Project in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and as a consequence of the Department’s action, Central Valley Project yield is greater than it would have been absent the Department’s actions, then that additional yield shall be made available to the State Water Project for delivery to State Water Project contractors to offset losses resulting from the Department’s action. (c) Notification related to environmental protections The Secretary of the Interior shall immediately notify the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in writing if the Secretary of the Interior determines that implementation of the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion consistent with this Act reduces environmental protections for any species covered by the opinions. 502. Area of origin protections (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to adhere to California’s water rights laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the Central Valley Project, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914, as well as water rights and other priorities perfected or to be perfected pursuant to California Water Code Part 2 of Division 2. Article 1.7 (commencing with section 1215 of chapter 1 of part 2 of division 2, sections 10505, 10505.5, 11128, 11460, 11461, 11462, and 11463, and sections 12200 to 12220, inclusive). (b) Diversions Any action undertaken by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to both this Act and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that requires that diversions from the Sacramento River or the San Joaquin River watersheds upstream of the Delta be bypassed shall not be undertaken in a manner that alters the water rights priorities established by California law. (c) Endangered species act Nothing in this title alters the existing authorities provided to and obligations placed upon the Federal Government under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), as amended. (d) Contracts With respect to individuals and entities with water rights on the Sacramento River, the mandates of this section may be met, in whole or in part, through a contract with the Secretary of the Interior executed pursuant to section 14 of Public Law 76–260 ; 53 Stat. 1187 ( 43 U.S.C. 389 ) that is in conformance with the Sacramento River Settlement Contracts renewed by the Secretary of the Interior in 2005. 503. No redirected adverse impacts (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that, except as otherwise provided for in a water service or repayment contract, actions taken in compliance with legal obligations imposed pursuant to or as a result of this Act, including such actions under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) and other applicable Federal and State laws, shall not directly or indirectly— (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to individuals or districts who receive water from either the State Water Project or the United States under water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, water service contracts, repayment contracts, or water supply contracts; or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River watershed, the San Joaquin River watershed or the State Water Project service area. (b) Costs To the extent that costs are incurred solely pursuant to or as a result of this Act and would not otherwise have been incurred by any entity or public or local agency or subdivision of the State of California, such costs shall not be borne by any such entity, agency, or subdivision of the State of California, unless such costs are incurred on a voluntary basis. (c) Rights and obligations not modified or amended Nothing in this Act shall modify or amend the rights and obligations of the parties to any existing— (1) water service, repayment, settlement, purchase, or exchange contract with the United States, including the obligation to satisfy exchange contracts and settlement contracts prior to the allocation of any other Central Valley Project water; or (2) State Water Project water supply or settlement contract with the State. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors (a) Allocations (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2) and subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with the following: (A) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Wet year. (B) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in an Above Normal year. (C) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Below Normal year that is preceded by an Above Normal or a Wet year. (D) Not less than 50 percent of their contract quantities in a Dry year that is preceded by a Below Normal, an Above Normal, or a Wet year. (E) In all other years not identified herein, the allocation percentage for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed shall not be less than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors, up to 100 percent; provided, that nothing herein shall preclude an allocation to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed that is greater than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors. (2) Conditions The Secretary’s actions under paragraph (a) shall be subject to— (A) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, including those with Sacramento River Settlement Contracts, that have priority to the diversion and use of Sacramento River water over water rights held by the United States for operations of the Central Valley Project; (B) the United States obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors; and (C) the Secretary’s obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to section 3406(d) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). (b) Protection of municipal and industrial supplies Nothing in subsection (a) shall be deemed to— (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies of the Secretary; (2) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to adopt or modify municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; or (4) affect allocations to Central Valley Project municipal and industrial contractors pursuant to such policies. Neither subsection (a) nor the Secretary’s implementation of subsection (a) shall constrain, govern or affect, directly, the operations of the Central Valley Project’s American River Division or any deliveries from that Division, its units or facilities. (c) No effect on allocations This section shall not— (1) affect the allocation of water to Friant Division contractors; or (2) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. (d) Program for water rescheduling The Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, to provide for the opportunity for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project water service contracts, from one year to the next. (e) Definitions In this section: (1) The term existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed means water service contractors within the Shasta, Trinity, and Sacramento River Divisions of the Central Valley Project, that have a water service contract in effect, on the date of the enactment of this section, that provides water for irrigation. (2) The year type terms used in subsection (a) have the meaning given those year types in the Sacramento Valley Water Year Type (40–30–30) Index. 505. Effect on existing obligations Nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under Federal reclamation law to operate the Central Valley Project in conformity with State law, including established water rights priorities. VI MISCELLANEOUS 601. Authorized service area (a) In general The authorized service area of the Central Valley Project authorized under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) shall include the area within the boundaries of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act. (b) Long-Term contract (1) In general Notwithstanding the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) and subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior, in accordance with the Federal reclamation laws, shall enter into a long-term contract with the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, under terms and conditions mutually agreeable to the parties, for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of Central Valley Project water for municipal and industrial use. (2) Limitation Central Valley Project water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under paragraph (1) shall be limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet the immediate needs of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, in the event that local supplies or State Water Project allocations are insufficient to meet those needs. (c) Permit The Secretary shall apply for a permit with the State for a joint place of use for water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under subsection (b) with respect to the expanded service area under subsection (a), consistent with State law. (d) Additional costs If any additional infrastructure, water treatment, or related costs are needed to implement this section, those costs shall be the responsibility of the non-Federal entity. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund (a) Plan; advisory board Section 3407 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4726) is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) Plan on expenditure of funds (1) In general For each fiscal year, the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. (2) Contents The plan shall include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. (h) Advisory board (1) Establishment There is established the Restoration Fund Advisory Board (referred to in this section as the Advisory Board ), which shall be composed of 11 members appointed by the Secretary. (2) Membership (A) In general The Secretary shall appoint members to the Advisory Board that represent the various Central Valley Project stakeholders, of whom— (i) 4 members shall be agricultural users of the Central Valley Project, including at least one agricultural user from north-of-the-Delta and one agricultural user from south-of-the-Delta; (ii) 2 members shall be municipal and industrial users of the Central Valley Project, including one municipal and industrial user from north-of-the-Delta and one municipal and industrial user from south-of-the-Delta; (iii) 2 members shall be power contractors of the Central Valley Project, including at least one power contractor from north-of-the-Delta and from south-of-the-Delta; (iv) 1 member shall be a representative of a Federal national wildlife refuge that contracts for Central Valley Project water supplies with the Bureau of Reclamation; (v) 1 member shall have expertise in the economic impacts of the changes to water operations; and (vi) 1 member shall be a representative of a wildlife entity that primarily focuses on waterfowl. (B) Observer The Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce may each designate a representative to act as an observer of the Advisory Board. (C) Chair The Secretary shall appoint 1 of the members described in subparagraph (A) to serve as Chair of the Advisory Board. (3) Terms The term of each member of the Advisory Board shall be 4 years. (4) Date of appointments The appointment of a member of the Panel shall be made not later than— (A) the date that is 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act; or (B) in the case of a vacancy on the Panel described in subsection (c)(2), the date that is 120 days after the date on which the vacancy occurs. (5) Vacancies (A) In general A vacancy on the Panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and shall be subject to any conditions that applied with respect to the original appointment. (B) Filling unexpired term An individual chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed for the unexpired term of the member replaced. (C) Expiration of terms The term of any member shall not expire before the date on which the successor of the member takes office. (6) Removal A member of the Panel may be removed from office by the Secretary of the Interior. (7) Federal advisory committee act The Panel shall not be subject to the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. (8) Duties The duties of the Advisory Board are— (A) to meet not less frequently than semiannually to develop and make recommendations to the Secretary regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs carried out under this title; (B) to ensure that any advice given or recommendation made by the Advisory Board reflects the independent judgment of the Advisory Board; (C) not later than December 31, 2015, and annually thereafter, to submit to the Secretary and Congress the recommendations under subparagraph (A); and (D) not later than December 31, 2015, and biennially thereafter, to submit to Congress details of the progress made in achieving the actions required under section 3406. (9) Administration With the consent of the appropriate agency head, the Advisory Board may use the facilities and services of any Federal agency. (10) Cooperation and assistance (A) Provision of information Upon request of the Panel Chair for information or assistance to facilitate carrying out this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall promptly provide such information, unless otherwise prohibited by law. (B) Space and assistance The Secretary of the Interior shall provide the Panel with appropriate and adequate office space, together with such equipment, office supplies, and communications facilities and services as may be necessary for the operation of the Panel, and shall provide necessary maintenance services for such offices and the equipment and facilities located therein. . 603. Water supply accounting (a) In general All Central Valley Project water, except Central Valley Project water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000 used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by terms and conditions existing in licenses, permits, and other agreements pertaining to the Central Valley Project under applicable State or Federal law existing on October 30, 1992, shall be credited to the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed under this section; provided, that nothing herein shall affect the Secretary of the Interior’s duty to comply with any otherwise lawful requirement imposed on operations of the Central Valley Project under any provision of Federal or State law. (b) Reclamation policies and allocations Reclamation policies and allocations shall not be based upon any premise or assumption that Central Valley Project contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan (a) In general Not later than October 1, 2016, the Secretary of the Interior shall update and implement the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . The Secretary shall notify the Congress annually describing the progress of implementing the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . (b) Potential amendment If the plan required in subsection (a) has not increased the Central Valley Project yield by 800,000 acre-feet within 5 years after the enactment of this Act, then section 3406 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) is amended as follows: (1) In subsection (b)— (A) by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read: (C) If by March 15, 2021, and any year thereafter the quantity of Central Valley Project water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the Central Valley Project is below 50 percent of the total quantity of water to be made available under said contracts, the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed for that year under this paragraph shall be reduced by 25 percent. . 605. Natural and artificially spawned species After the date of the enactment of this title, and regardless of the date of listing, the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce shall not distinguish between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides for all or a portion of its life in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or rivers tributary thereto. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section, the following terms apply: (1) Interested local water and power providers The term interested local water and power providers includes the Calaveras County Water District, Calaveras Public Power Agency, Central San Joaquin Water Conservation District, Oakdale Irrigation District, Stockton East Water District, South San Joaquin Irrigation District, Tuolumne Utilities District, Tuolumne Public Power Agency, and Union Public Utilities District. (2) New melones unit, central valley project The term New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project means all Federal reclamation projects located within or diverting water from or to the watershed of the Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries as authorized by the Act of August 26, 1937 (50 Stat. 850), and all Acts amendatory or supplemental thereto, including the Act of October 23, 1962 (76 Stat. 1173). (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Negotiations Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into negotiations with interested local water and power providers for the transfer ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers within the State of California. (c) Transfer The Secretary shall transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project in accordance with an agreement reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b). (d) Notification Not later than 360 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate— (1) if an agreement is reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b), the terms of that agreement; (2) of the status of formal discussions with interested local water and power providers for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (3) of all unresolved issues that are preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (4) on analysis and review of studies, reports, discussions, hearing transcripts, negotiations, and other information about past and present formal discussions that— (A) have a serious impact on the progress of the formal discussions; (B) explain or provide information about the issues that prevent progress or finalization of formal discussions; or (C) are, in whole or in part, preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer; and (5) of any actions the Secretary recommends that the United States should take to finalize an agreement for that transfer. 607. Basin studies (a) Authorized studies The Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to expand opportunities and expedite completion of assessments under section 9503(b) of the SECURE Water Act ( 42 U.S.C. 10363(b) ), with non-Federal partners, of individual sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins; and shall ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. (b) Funding (1) In general The non-Federal partners shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the special studies. (2) Contributed Funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the non-Federal partners to carry out activities under the special studies. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division The Secretary of the Interior, in the operation of the Trinity River Division of the Central Valley Project, shall not make releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type required by the U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. (1) A maximum of 369,000 acre-feet in a Critically Dry year. (2) A maximum of 453,000 acre-feet in a Dry year. (3) A maximum of 647,000 acre-feet in a Normal year. (4) A maximum of 701,000 acre-feet in a Wet year. (5) A maximum of 815,000 acre-feet in an Extremely Wet year. 609. Amendment to purposes Section 3402 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4706) is amended— (1) in subsection (f), by striking the period at the end; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (g) to ensure that water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes by this title is replaced and provided to Central Valley Project water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable; and (h) to facilitate and expedite water transfers in accordance with this Act. . 610. Amendment to definition Section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4707) is amended— (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) the term anadromous fish means those native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that, as of October 30, 1992, were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean; ; (2) in subsection (l), by striking and, ; (3) in subsection (m), by striking the period and inserting ; and ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (n) the term reasonable flow means water flows capable of being maintained taking into account competing consumptive uses of water and economic, environmental, and social factors. . 611. Report on results of water usage The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Natural Resources of the State of California, shall publish an annual report detailing instream flow releases from the Central Valley Project and California State Water Project, their explicit purpose and authority, and all measured environmental benefit as a result of the releases. 612. Klamath project consultation applicants If the Bureau of Reclamation initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Klamath Project (or any part thereof), Klamath Project contractors shall be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. Upon request of the Klamath Project contractors, they may be represented through an association or organization. VII Water Supply Permitting Act 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act . 702. Definitions In this title: (1) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (2) Bureau The term Bureau means the Bureau of Reclamation. (3) Qualifying projects The term qualifying projects means new surface water storage projects in the States covered under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) constructed on lands administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding. (4) Cooperating agencies The term cooperating agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations, or a State agency subject to section 703(c). 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies (a) Establishment of Lead Agency The Bureau of Reclamation is established as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions required under Federal law to construct qualifying projects. (b) Identification and Establishment of Cooperating Agencies The Commissioner of the Bureau shall— (1) identify, as early as practicable upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, any Federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, approval, or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations; and (2) notify any such agency, within a reasonable timeframe, that the agency has been designated as a cooperating agency in regards to the qualifying project unless that agency responds to the Bureau in writing, within a timeframe set forth by the Bureau, notifying the Bureau that the agency— (A) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the qualifying project; (B) has no expertise or information relevant to the qualifying project or any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision associated therewith; or (C) does not intend to submit comments on the qualifying project or conduct any review of such a project or make any decision with respect to such project in a manner other than in cooperation with the Bureau. (c) State Authority A State in which a qualifying project is being considered may choose, consistent with State law— (1) to participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) to make subject to the processes of this title all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the qualifying project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, or opinion for the qualifying project; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the qualifying project. 704. Bureau responsibilities (a) In general The principal responsibilities of the Bureau under this title are to— (1) serve as the point of contact for applicants, State agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all Federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of Federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) coordinate all Federal agency reviews necessary for project development and construction of qualifying projects. (b) Coordination process The Bureau shall have the following coordination responsibilities: (1) Pre-application coordination Notify cooperating agencies of proposed qualifying projects not later than 30 days after receipt of a proposal and facilitate a preapplication meeting for prospective applicants, relevant Federal and State agencies, and Indian tribes to— (A) explain applicable processes, data requirements, and applicant submissions necessary to complete the required Federal agency reviews within the timeframe established; and (B) establish the schedule for the qualifying project. (2) Consultation with cooperating agencies Consult with the cooperating agencies throughout the Federal agency review process, identify and obtain relevant data in a timely manner, and set necessary deadlines for cooperating agencies. (3) Schedule Work with the qualifying project applicant and cooperating agencies to establish a project schedule. In establishing the schedule, the Bureau shall consider, among other factors— (A) the responsibilities of cooperating agencies under applicable laws and regulations; (B) the resources available to the cooperating agencies and the non-Federal qualifying project sponsor, as applicable; (C) the overall size and complexity of the qualifying project; (D) the overall schedule for and cost of the qualifying project; and (E) the sensitivity of the natural and historic resources that may be affected by the qualifying project. (4) Environmental compliance Prepare a unified environmental review document for each qualifying project application, incorporating a single environmental record on which all cooperating agencies with authority to issue approvals for a given qualifying project shall base project approval decisions. Help ensure that cooperating agencies make necessary decisions, within their respective authorities, regarding Federal approvals in accordance with the following timelines: (A) Not later than one year after acceptance of a completed project application when an environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact is determined to be the appropriate level of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (B) Not later than one year and 30 days after the close of the public comment period for a draft environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ), when an environmental impact statement is required under the same. (5) Consolidated administrative record Maintain a consolidated administrative record of the information assembled and used by the cooperating agencies as the basis for agency decisions. (6) Project data records To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, ensure that all project data is submitted and maintained in generally accessible electronic format, compile, and where authorized under existing law, make available such project data to cooperating agencies, the qualifying project applicant, and to the public. (7) Project manager Appoint a project manager for each qualifying project. The project manager shall have authority to oversee the project and to facilitate the issuance of the relevant final authorizing documents, and shall be responsible for ensuring fulfillment of all Bureau responsibilities set forth in this section and all cooperating agency responsibilities under section 705. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities (a) Adherence to Bureau Schedule Upon notification of an application for a qualifying project, all cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau a timeframe under which the cooperating agency reasonably considers it will be able to complete its authorizing responsibilities. The Bureau shall use the timeframe submitted under this subsection to establish the project schedule under section 704, and the cooperating agencies shall adhere to the project schedule established by the Bureau. (b) Environmental Record Cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau all environmental review material produced or compiled in the course of carrying out activities required under Federal law consistent with the project schedule established by the Bureau. (c) Data Submission To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, the cooperating agencies shall submit all relevant project data to the Bureau in a generally accessible electronic format subject to the project schedule set forth by the Bureau. 706. Funding to process permits (a) In general The Secretary, after public notice in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act ( 5 U.S.C. 553 ), may accept and expend funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. (b) Effect on permitting (1) In general In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the use of funds accepted under subsection (a) will not impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to permits, either substantively or procedurally. (2) Evaluation of permits In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the evaluation of permits carried out using funds accepted under this section shall— (A) be reviewed by the Regional Director of the Bureau, or the Regional Director’s designee, of the region in which the qualifying project or activity is located; and (B) use the same procedures for decisions that would otherwise be required for the evaluation of permits for similar projects or activities not carried out using funds authorized under this section. (3) Impartial decisionmaking In carrying out this section, the Secretary and the cooperating agencies receiving funds under this section for qualifying projects shall ensure that the use of the funds accepted under this section for such projects shall not— (A) impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to the issuance of permits, either substantively or procedurally; or (B) diminish, modify, or otherwise affect the statutory or regulatory authorities of such agencies. (c) Limitation on use of funds None of the funds accepted under this section shall be used to carry out a review of the evaluation of permits required under subsection (b)(2)(A). (d) Public availability The Secretary shall ensure that all final permit decisions carried out using funds authorized under this section are made available to the public, including on the Internet. VIII Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining 801. Short title This title may be cited as the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act . 802. Definitions In this title: (1) Environmental impact statement The term environmental impact statement means the detailed statement of environmental impacts of a project required to be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (2) Environmental review process (A) In general The term environmental review process means the process of preparing an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for a project study. (B) Inclusions The term environmental review process includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project study under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (3) Federal jurisdictional agency The term Federal jurisdictional agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction delegated by law, regulation, order, or otherwise over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a project study under applicable Federal laws (including regulations). (4) Federal lead agency The term Federal lead agency means the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Project The term project means a surface water project, a project under the purview of title XVI of Public Law 102–575 , or a rural water supply project investigated under Public Law 109–451 to be carried out, funded or operated in whole or in party by the Secretary pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (6) Project sponsor The term project sponsor means a State, regional, or local authority or instrumentality or other qualifying entity, such as a water conservation district, irrigation district, water conservancy district, joint powers authority, mutual water company, canal company, rural water district or association, or any other entity that has the capacity to contract with the United States under Federal reclamation law. (7) Project study The term project study means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (8) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (9) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any surface water reservoir or impoundment that would be owned, funded or operated in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation or that would be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. 803. Acceleration of studies (a) In general To the extent practicable, a project study initiated by the Secretary, after the date of enactment of this Act, under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto, shall— (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report not later than 3 years after the date of initiation; (2) have a maximum Federal cost of $3,000,000; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and headquarters levels of the Bureau of Reclamation concurrently conduct the review required under this section. (b) Extension If the Secretary determines that a project study described in subsection (a) will not be conducted in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary, not later than 30 days after the date of making the determination, shall— (1) prepare an updated project study schedule and cost estimate; (2) notify the non-Federal project cost-sharing partner that the project study has been delayed; and (3) provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the reasons the requirements of subsection (a) are not attainable. (c) Exception (1) In general Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary may extend the timeline of a project study by a period not to exceed 3 years, if the Secretary determines that the project study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a). (2) Factors In making a determination that a study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider— (A) the type, size, location, scope, and overall cost of the project; (B) whether the project will use any innovative design or construction techniques; (C) whether the project will require significant action by other Federal, State, or local agencies; (D) whether there is significant public dispute as to the nature or effects of the project; and (E) whether there is significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project. (3) Notification Each time the Secretary makes a determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the results of that determination, including an identification of the specific one or more factors used in making the determination that the project is complex. (4) Limitation The Secretary shall not extend the timeline for a project study for a period of more than 7 years, and any project study that is not completed before that date shall no longer be authorized. (d) Reviews Not later than 90 days after the date of the initiation of a project study described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall— (1) take all steps necessary to initiate the process for completing federally mandated reviews that the Secretary is required to complete as part of the study, including the environmental review process under section 805; (2) convene a meeting of all Federal, tribal, and State agencies identified under section 805(d) that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study; and (3) take all steps necessary to provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses related to the project to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. (e) Interim report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of the planning process under this section, including the number of participating projects; (2) a review of project delivery schedules, including a description of any delays on those studies initiated prior to the date of the enactment of this Act; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project. (f) Final report Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of this section, including a description of each project study subject to the requirements of this section; (2) the amount of time taken to complete each project study; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project study process, including an analysis of whether the limitation established by subsection (a)(2) needs to be adjusted to address the impacts of inflation. 804. Expedited completion of reports The Secretary shall— (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) if the Secretary determines that the project is justified in a completed report, proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of the project in accordance with the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. 805. Project acceleration (a) Applicability (1) In general This section shall apply to— (A) each project study that is initiated after the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (B) the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other project studies initiated before the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental review process document is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (C) any project study for the development of a non-federally owned and operated surface water storage project for which the Secretary determines there is a demonstrable Federal interest and the project— (i) is located in a river basin where other Bureau of Reclamation water projects are located; (ii) will create additional water supplies that support Bureau of Reclamation water projects; or (iii) will become integrated into the operation of Bureau of Reclamation water projects. (2) Flexibility Any authority granted under this section may be exercised, and any requirement established under this section may be satisfied, for the conduct of an environmental review process for a project study, a class of project studies, or a program of project studies. (3) List of project studies (A) In general The Secretary shall annually prepare, and make publicly available, a list of all project studies that the Secretary has determined— (i) meets the standards described in paragraph (1); and (ii) does not have adequate funding to make substantial progress toward the completion of the project study. (B) Inclusions The Secretary shall include for each project study on the list under subparagraph (A) a description of the estimated amounts necessary to make substantial progress on the project study. (b) Project review process (1) In general The Secretary shall develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of project studies. (2) Coordinated review The coordinated environmental review process described in paragraph (1) shall require that any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision issued or made by a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or an Indian tribe for a project study described in subsection (b) be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, concurrently with any other applicable governmental agency or Indian tribe. (3) Timing The coordinated environmental review process under this subsection shall be completed not later than the date on which the Secretary, in consultation and concurrence with the agencies identified under section 805(d), establishes with respect to the project study. (c) Lead agencies (1) Joint lead agencies (A) In general Subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the requirements of section 1506.8 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), including the concurrence of the proposed joint lead agency, a project sponsor may serve as the joint lead agency. (B) Project sponsor as joint lead agency A project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity may— (i) with the concurrence of the Secretary, serve as a joint lead agency with the Federal lead agency for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) prepare any environmental review process document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if— (I) the Secretary provides guidance in the preparation process and independently evaluates that document; (II) the project sponsor complies with all requirements applicable to the Secretary under— (aa) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (bb) any regulation implementing that Act; and (cc) any other applicable Federal law; and (III) the Secretary approves and adopts the document before the Secretary takes any subsequent action or makes any approval based on that document, regardless of whether the action or approval of the Secretary results in Federal funding. (2) Duties The Secretary shall ensure that— (A) the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection; and (B) any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor is appropriately supplemented to address any changes to the project the Secretary determines are necessary. (3) Adoption and use of documents Any environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection shall be adopted and used by any Federal agency making any determination related to the project study to the same extent that the Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency under— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) parts 1500 through 1508 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations). (4) Roles and responsibility of lead agency With respect to the environmental review process for any project study, the Federal lead agency shall have authority and responsibility— (A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper and within the authority of the Federal lead agency to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project study; and (B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other environmental review document for a project study required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law. (d) Participating and cooperating agencies (1) Identification of jurisdictional agencies With respect to carrying out the environmental review process for a project study, the Secretary shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, all Federal, State, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (2) State authority If the environmental review process is being implemented by the Secretary for a project study within the boundaries of a State, the State, consistent with State law, may choose to participate in the process and to make subject to the process all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (3) Invitation (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall invite, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, any agency identified under paragraph (1) to become a participating or cooperating agency, as applicable, in the environmental review process for the project study. (B) Deadline An invitation to participate issued under subparagraph (A) shall set a deadline by which a response to the invitation shall be submitted, which may be extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (4) Procedures Section 1501.6 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act) shall govern the identification and the participation of a cooperating agency. (5) Federal cooperating agencies Any Federal agency that is invited by the Federal lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project study shall be designated as a cooperating agency by the Federal lead agency unless the invited agency informs the Federal lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency— (A) (i) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project; (ii) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; or (iii) does not have adequate funds to participate in the project; and (B) does not intend to submit comments on the project. (6) Administration A participating or cooperating agency shall comply with this section and any schedule established under this section. (7) Effect of designation Designation as a participating or cooperating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating or cooperating agency— (A) supports a proposed project; or (B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project. (8) Concurrent reviews Each participating or cooperating agency shall— (A) carry out the obligations of that agency under other applicable law concurrently and in conjunction with the required environmental review process, unless doing so would prevent the participating or cooperating agency from conducting needed analysis or otherwise carrying out those obligations; and (B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner. (e) Non-Federal projects integrated into reclamation systems The Federal lead agency shall serve in that capacity for the entirety of all non-Federal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. (f) Non-Federal project If the Secretary determines that a project can be expedited by a non-Federal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable Federal interest in expediting that project, the Secretary shall take such actions as are necessary to advance such a project as a non-Federal project, including, but not limited to, entering into agreements with the non-Federal sponsor of such project to support the planning, design and permitting of such project as a non-Federal project. (g) Programmatic compliance (1) In general The Secretary shall issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process that— (A) eliminates repetitive discussions of the same issues; (B) focuses on the actual issues ripe for analyses at each level of review; (C) establishes a formal process for coordinating with participating and cooperating agencies, including the creation of a list of all data that are needed to carry out an environmental review process; and (D) complies with— (i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) all other applicable laws. (2) Requirements In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— (A) as the first step in drafting guidance under that paragraph, consult with relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public on the appropriate use and scope of the programmatic approaches; (B) emphasize the importance of collaboration among relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, and Indian tribes in undertaking programmatic reviews, especially with respect to including reviews with a broad geographical scope; (C) ensure that the programmatic reviews— (i) promote transparency, including of the analyses and data used in the environmental review process, the treatment of any deferred issues raised by Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, or the public, and the temporal and special scales to be used to analyze those issues; (ii) use accurate and timely information in the environmental review process, including— (I) criteria for determining the general duration of the usefulness of the review; and (II) the timeline for updating any out-of-date review; (iii) describe— (I) the relationship between programmatic analysis and future tiered analysis; and (II) the role of the public in the creation of future tiered analysis; and (iv) are available to other relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public; (D) allow not fewer than 60 days of public notice and comment on any proposed guidance; and (E) address any comments received under subparagraph (D). (h) Coordinated reviews (1) Coordination plan (A) Establishment The Federal lead agency shall, after consultation with and with the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in, and comment on, the environmental review process for a project study or a category of project studies. (B) Schedule (i) In general As soon as practicable but not later than 45 days after the close of the public comment period on a draft environmental impact statement, the Federal lead agency, after consultation with and the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, shall establish, as part of the coordination plan established in subparagraph (A), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project study. (ii) Factors for consideration In establishing a schedule, the Secretary shall consider factors such as— (I) the responsibilities of participating and cooperating agencies under applicable laws; (II) the resources available to the project sponsor, joint lead agency, and other relevant Federal and State agencies, as applicable; (III) the overall size and complexity of the project; (IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and (V) the sensitivity of the natural and historical resources that could be affected by the project. (iii) Modifications The Secretary may— (I) lengthen a schedule established under clause (i) for good cause; and (II) shorten a schedule only with concurrence of the affected participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable. (iv) Dissemination A copy of a schedule established under clause (i) shall be— (I) provided to each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable; and (II) made available to the public. (2) Comment deadlines The Federal lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project study: (A) Draft environmental impact statements For comments by Federal and State agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of the draft environmental impact statement, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (B) Other environmental review processes For all other comment periods established by the Federal lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of not more than 30 days after the date on which the materials on which comment is requested are made available, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor, or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws In any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project study, including the issuance or denial of a permit or license, is required to be made by the date described in subsection (i)(5)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate— (A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period described in subsection (i)(5)(B), an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and (B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project study have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice. (4) Involvement of the public Nothing in this subsection reduces any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under applicable Federal law (including regulations). (5) Transparency reporting (A) Reporting requirements Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish and maintain an electronic database and, in coordination with other Federal and State agencies, issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and any other Federal, State, or local approval or action required for a project study for which this section is applicable. (B) Project study transparency Consistent with the requirements established under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall make publicly available the status and progress of any Federal, State, or local decision, action, or approval required under applicable laws for each project study for which this section is applicable. (i) Issue identification and resolution (1) Cooperation The Federal lead agency, the cooperating agencies, and any participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (2) Federal lead agency responsibilities (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall make information available to the cooperating agencies and participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration. (B) Data sources The information under subparagraph (A) may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping. (3) Cooperating and participating agency responsibilities Based on information received from the Federal lead agency, cooperating and participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts of the project, including any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project study. (4) Accelerated issue resolution and elevation (A) In general On the request of a participating or cooperating agency or project sponsor, the Secretary shall convene an issue resolution meeting with the relevant participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, to resolve issues that may— (i) delay completion of the environmental review process; or (ii) result in denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (B) Meeting date A meeting requested under this paragraph shall be held not later than 21 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the request for the meeting, unless the Secretary determines that there is good cause to extend that deadline. (C) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under this paragraph, the Secretary shall notify all relevant participating and cooperating agencies of the request, including the issue to be resolved and the date for the meeting. (D) Elevation of issue resolution If a resolution cannot be achieved within the 30-day period beginning on the date of a meeting under this paragraph and a determination is made by the Secretary that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the Secretary shall forward the dispute to the heads of the relevant agencies for resolution. (E) Convention by secretary The Secretary may convene an issue resolution meeting under this paragraph at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under subparagraph (A). (5) Financial penalty provisions (A) In general A Federal jurisdictional agency shall complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis using the shortest existing applicable process. (B) Failure to decide (i) In general (I) Transfer of funds If a Federal jurisdictional agency fails to render a decision required under any Federal law relating to a project study that requires the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, including the issuance or denial of a permit, license, statement, opinion, or other approval by the date described in clause (ii), the amount of funds made available to support the office of the head of the Federal jurisdictional agency shall be reduced by an amount of funding equal to the amount specified in item (aa) or (bb) of subclause (II), and those funds shall be made available to the division of the Federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than 1 day after the applicable date under clause (ii), and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered, subject to subparagraph (C). (II) Amount to be transferred The amount referred to in subclause (I) is— (aa) $20,000 for any project study requiring the preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement; or (bb) $10,000 for any project study requiring any type of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) other than an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. (ii) Description of date The date referred to in clause (i) is the later of— (I) the date that is 180 days after the date on which an application for the permit, license, or approval is complete; and (II) the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Federal lead agency issues a decision on the project under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (C) Limitations (i) In general No transfer of funds under subparagraph (B) relating to an individual project study shall exceed, in any fiscal year, an amount equal to 1 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office. (ii) Failure to decide The total amount transferred in a fiscal year as a result of a failure by an agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline shall not exceed an amount equal to 5 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office for that fiscal year. (iii) Aggregate Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, the aggregate amount of financial penalties assessed against each applicable agency office under this Act and any other Federal law as a result of a failure of the agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline for environmental review, including the total amount transferred under this paragraph, shall not exceed an amount equal to 9.5 percent of the funds made available for the agency office for that fiscal year. (D) Notification of transfers Not later than 10 days after the last date in a fiscal year on which funds of the Federal jurisdictional agency may be transferred under subparagraph (B)(5) with respect to an individual decision, the agency shall submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate written notification that includes a description of— (i) the decision; (ii) the project study involved; (iii) the amount of each transfer under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; (iv) the total amount of all transfers under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; and (v) the total amount of all transfers of the agency under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year. (E) No fault of agency (i) In general A transfer of funds under this paragraph shall not be made if the applicable agency described in subparagraph (A) notifies, with a supporting explanation, the Federal lead agency, cooperating agencies, and project sponsor, as applicable, that— (I) the agency has not received necessary information or approvals from another entity in a manner that affects the ability of the agency to meet any requirements under Federal, State, or local law; (II) significant new information, including from public comments, or circumstances, including a major modification to an aspect of the project, requires additional analysis for the agency to make a decision on the project application; or (III) the agency lacks the financial resources to complete the review under the scheduled timeframe, including a description of the number of full-time employees required to complete the review, the amount of funding required to complete the review, and a justification as to why not enough funding is available to complete the review by the deadline. (ii) Lack of financial resources If the agency provides notice under clause (i)(III), the Inspector General of the agency shall— (I) conduct a financial audit to review the notice; and (II) not later than 90 days after the date on which the review described in subclause (I) is completed, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate the results of the audit conducted under subclause (I). (F) Limitation The Federal agency from which funds are transferred pursuant to this paragraph shall not reprogram funds to the office of the head of the agency, or equivalent office, to reimburse that office for the loss of the funds. (G) Effect of paragraph Nothing in this paragraph affects or limits the application of, or obligation to comply with, any Federal, State, local, or tribal law. (j) Memorandum of agreements for early coordination (1) Sense of congress It is the sense of Congress that— (A) the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process should cooperate with each other, State and local agencies, and Indian tribes on environmental review and Bureau of Reclamation project delivery activities at the earliest practicable time to avoid delays and duplication of effort later in the process, prevent potential conflicts, and ensure that planning and project development decisions reflect environmental values; and (B) the cooperation referred to in subparagraph (A) should include the development of policies and the designation of staff that advise planning agencies and project sponsors of studies or other information foreseeably required for later Federal action and early consultation with appropriate State and local agencies and Indian tribes. (2) Technical assistance If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, shall, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, as determined by the agencies, provide technical assistance to the State or project sponsor in carrying out early coordination activities. (3) Memorandum of agency agreement If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Federal lead agency, in consultation with other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, may establish memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, State and local governments, and other appropriate entities to carry out the early coordination activities, including providing technical assistance in identifying potential impacts and mitigation issues in an integrated fashion. (k) Limitations Nothing in this section preempts or interferes with— (1) any obligation to comply with the provisions of any Federal law, including— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) any other Federal environmental law; (2) the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State; (3) any requirement for seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or (4) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, duty, or authority that a Federal, State, or local governmental agency, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provision of law applicable to projects. (l) Timing of claims (1) Timing (A) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or other approval issued by a Federal agency for a project study shall be barred unless the claim is filed not later than 3 years after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or other approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law that allows judicial review. (B) Applicability Nothing in this subsection creates a right to judicial review or places any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or other approval. (2) New information (A) In general The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations). (B) Separate action The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document, if required under this section, shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of the action shall be 3 years after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing the action relating to such supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document. (m) Categorical exclusions (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) survey the use by the Bureau of Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005; (B) publish a review of the survey that includes a description of— (i) the types of actions that were categorically excluded or could be the basis for developing a new categorical exclusion; and (ii) any requests previously received by the Secretary for new categorical exclusions; and (C) solicit requests from other Federal agencies and project sponsors for new categorical exclusions. (2) New categorical exclusions Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, if the Secretary has identified a category of activities that merit establishing a categorical exclusion that did not exist on the day before the date of enactment this Act based on the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to propose that new categorical exclusion, to the extent that the categorical exclusion meets the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation). (n) Review of project acceleration reforms (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall— (A) assess the reforms carried out under this section; and (B) not later than 5 years and not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the assessment. (2) Contents The reports under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of impacts of the reforms carried out under this section on— (A) project delivery; (B) compliance with environmental laws; and (C) the environmental impact of projects. (o) Performance measurement The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. (p) Categorical exclusions in emergencies For the repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of a Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project that is in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. ), the Secretary shall treat such repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation activity as a class of action categorically excluded from the requirements relating to environmental assessments or environmental impact statements under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), if the repair or reconstruction activity is— (1) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, and design as the original Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project as before the declaration described in this section; and (2) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described in this subsection. 806. Annual report to Congress (a) In general Not later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate an annual report, to be entitled Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development , that identifies the following: (1) Project reports Each project report that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (2) Proposed project studies Any proposed project study submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b) that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (3) Proposed modifications Any proposed modification to an authorized water project or project study that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A) that— (A) is submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b); or (B) is identified by the Secretary for authorization. (4) Expedited completion of report and determinations Any project study that was expedited and any Secretarial determinations under section 804. (b) Requests for proposals (1) Publication Not later than May 1 of each year, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice requesting proposals from non-Federal interests for proposed project studies and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies to be included in the annual report. (2) Deadline for requests The Secretary shall include in each notice required by this subsection a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in paragraph (1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of the notice in the Federal Register in order for the proposals to be considered for inclusion in the annual report. (3) Notification On the date of publication of each notice required by this subsection, the Secretary shall— (A) make the notice publicly available, including on the Internet; and (B) provide written notification of the publication to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate. (c) Contents (1) Project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications (A) Criteria for inclusion in report The Secretary shall include in the annual report only those project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies that— (i) are related to the missions and authorities of the Bureau of Reclamation; (ii) require specific congressional authorization, including by an Act of Congress; (iii) have not been congressionally authorized; (iv) have not been included in any previous annual report; and (v) if authorized, could be carried out by the Bureau of Reclamation. (B) Description of benefits (i) Description The Secretary shall describe in the annual report, to the extent applicable and practicable, for each proposed project study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or project study included in the annual report, the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each such study or proposed modification. (ii) Benefits The benefits (or expected benefits, in the case of a proposed project study) described in this clause are benefits to— (I) the protection of human life and property; (II) improvement to domestic irrigated water and power supplies; (III) the national economy; (IV) the environment; or (V) the national security interests of the United States. (C) Identification of other factors The Secretary shall identify in the annual report, to the extent practicable— (i) for each proposed project study included in the annual report, the non-Federal interest that submitted the proposed project study pursuant to subsection (b); and (ii) for each proposed project study and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report, whether the non-Federal interest has demonstrated— (I) that local support exists for the proposed project study or proposed modification to an authorized project or project study (including the surface water storage development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized project study); and (II) the financial ability to provide the required non-Federal cost share. (2) Transparency The Secretary shall include in the annual report, for each project report, proposed project study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included under paragraph (1)(A)— (A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of— (i) the project report; (ii) the proposed project study; (iii) the authorized project study for which the modification is proposed; or (iv) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the water report; (bb) the proposed project study; or (cc) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed; or (II) the proposed modification to a project; (B) a letter or statement of support for the water report, proposed project study, or proposed modification to a project or project study from each associated non-Federal interest; (C) the purpose of the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to a project or project study; (D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of— (i) the proposed modification to an authorized project study; and (ii) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the project report; or (bb) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the change in costs resulting from such modification; or (II) the proposed modification to an authorized project; and (E) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of— (i) the project that is the subject of— (I) the project report; or (II) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the benefits of such modification; or (ii) the proposed modification to an authorized project. (3) Certification The Secretary shall include in the annual report a certification stating that each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report meets the criteria established in paragraph (1)(A). (4) Appendix The Secretary shall include in the annual report an appendix listing the proposals submitted under subsection (b) that were not included in the annual report under paragraph (1)(A) and a description of why the Secretary determined that those proposals did not meet the criteria for inclusion under such paragraph. (d) Special rule for initial annual report Notwithstanding any other deadlines required by this section, the Secretary shall— (1) not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, publish in the Federal Register a notice required by subsection (b)(1); and (2) include in such notice a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of such notice in the Federal Register in order for such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the first annual report developed by the Secretary under this section. (e) Publication Upon submission of an annual report to Congress, the Secretary shall make the annual report publicly available, including through publication on the Internet. (f) Definition In this section, the term project report means a final feasibility report developed under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. IX Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement 901. Short title This title may be cited as the Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act . 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies (a) Conversion and prepayment of contracts (1) Conversion Upon request of the contractor, the Secretary of the Interior shall convert any water service contract in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and between the United States and a water users’ association to allow for prepayment of the repayment contract pursuant to paragraph (2) under mutually agreeable terms and conditions. The manner of conversion under this paragraph shall be as follows: (A) Water service contracts that were entered into under section 9(e) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1196), to be converted under this section shall be converted to repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (B) Water service contracts that were entered under subsection (c)(2) of section 9 of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1194), to be converted under this section shall be converted to a contract under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (2) Prepayment Except for those repayment contracts under which the contractor has previously negotiated for prepayment, all repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(A) shall— (A) provide for the repayment, either in lump sum or by accelerated prepayment, of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific irrigation rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payment not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor, or if made in approximately equal installments, no later than 3 years after the effective date of the repayment contract, such amount to be discounted by ½ the Treasury rate. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days following receipt of request of the contractor; (B) require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law; (C) provide that power revenues will not be available to aid in repayment of construction costs allocated to irrigation under the contract; and (D) continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(d) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (3) Contract requirements Except for those repayment contracts under which the contractor has previously negotiated for prepayment, the following shall apply with regard to all repayment contracts under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B): (A) Provide for the repayment in lump sum of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific municipal and industrial rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payments not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days after receipt of request of contractor. (B) The contract shall require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor, shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law. (C) Continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(c)(1) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (4) Conditions All contracts entered into pursuant to paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) shall— (A) not be adjusted on the basis of the type of prepayment financing used by the water users’ association; (B) conform to any other agreements, such as applicable settlement agreements and new constructed appurtenant facilities; and (C) not modify other water service, repayment, exchange and transfer contractual rights between the water users’ association, and the Bureau of Reclamation, or any rights, obligations, or relationships of the water users’ association and their landowners as provided under State law. (b) Accounting The amounts paid pursuant to subsection (a) shall be subject to adjustment following a final cost allocation by the Secretary of the Interior. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are greater than what has been paid by the contractor, the contractor shall be obligated to pay the remaining allocated costs. The term of such additional repayment contract shall be not less than one year and not more than 10 years, however, mutually agreeable provisions regarding the rate of repayment of such amount may be developed by the parties. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are less than what the contractor has paid, the Secretary shall credit such overpayment as an offset against any outstanding or future obligation of the contractor. (c) Applicability of certain provisions (1) Effect of existing law Upon a contractor’s compliance with and discharge of the obligation of repayment of the construction costs pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A), subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) shall apply to affected lands. (2) Effect of other obligations The obligation of a contractor to repay construction costs or other capitalized costs described in subsection (a)(2)(B), (a)(3)(B), or (b) shall not affect a contractor’s status as having repaid all of the construction costs assignable to the contractor or the applicability of subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) once the amount required to be paid by the contractor under the repayment contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A) have been paid. (d) Effect on existing law not altered Implementation of the provisions of this title shall not alter— (1) the repayment obligation of any water service or repayment contractor receiving water from the same water project, or shift any costs that would otherwise have been properly assignable to the water users’ association identified in subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(3) absent this section, including operation and maintenance costs, construction costs, or other capitalized costs incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act, or to other contractors; and (2) specific requirements for the disposition of amounts received as repayments by the Secretary under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (e) Surface water storage enhancement program (1) In general Except as provided in subsection (d)(2), three years following the date of enactment of this Act, 50 percent of receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this section beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the date of enactment of this Act shall be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account under paragraph (2). (2) Surface storage account The Secretary shall allocate amounts collected under paragraph (1) into the Reclamation Surface Storage Account to fund the construction of surface water storage. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative agreements with water users’ associations for the construction of surface water storage and amounts within the Surface Storage Account may be used to fund such construction. Surface water storage projects that are otherwise not federally authorized shall not be considered Federal facilities as a result of any amounts allocated from the Surface Storage Account for part or all of such facilities. (3) Repayment Amounts used for surface water storage construction from the Account shall be fully reimbursed to the Account consistent with the requirements under Federal reclamation law (the law (the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093))), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) except that all funds reimbursed shall be deposited in the Account established under paragraph (2). (4) Availability of amounts Amounts deposited in the Account under this subsection shall— (A) be made available in accordance with this section, subject to appropriation; and (B) be in addition to amounts appropriated for such purposes under any other provision of law. (5) Purposes of surface water storage Construction of surface water storage under this section shall be made for the following purposes: (A) Increased municipal and industrial water supply. (B) Agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction. (C) Agricultural drainage improvements. (D) Agricultural irrigation. (E) Increased recreation opportunities. (F) Reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this section. (G) Any other purposes consistent with reclamation laws or other Federal law. (f) Definitions For the purposes of this title, the following definitions apply: (1) Account The term Account means the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account established under subsection (e)(2). (2) Construction The term construction means the designing, materials engineering and testing, surveying, and building of surface water storage including additions to existing surface water storage and construction of new surface water storage facilities, exclusive of any Federal statutory or regulatory obligations relating to any permit, review, approval, or other such requirement. (3) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any federally owned facility under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation or any non-Federal facility used for the surface storage and supply of water resources. (4) Treasury rate The term Treasury rate means the 20-year Constant Maturity Treasury (CMT) rate published by the United States Department of the Treasury existing on the effective date of the contract. (5) Water users’ association The term water users’ association means— (A) an entity organized and recognized under State laws that is eligible to enter into contracts with reclamation to receive contract water for delivery to and users of the water and to pay applicable charges; and (B) includes a variety of entities with different names and differing functions, such as associations, conservatory district, irrigation district, municipality, and water project contract unit. X Safety of Dams 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits The Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 is amended— (1) in section 3, by striking Construction and inserting Except as provided in section 5B, construction ; and (2) by inserting after section 5A ( 43 U.S.C. 509 ) the following: 5B. Authorization of additional project benefits Notwithstanding section 3, if the Secretary determines that additional project benefits, including but not limited to additional conservation storage capacity, are feasible and not inconsistent with the purposes of this Act, the Secretary is authorized to develop additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project in conjunction with the Secretary’s activities under section 2 of this Act and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided— (1) the Secretary determines that developing additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities; (2) the feasibility study pertaining to additional project benefits has been authorized pursuant to section 8 of the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965 ( 16 U.S.C. 4601–18 ); and (3) the costs associated with developing the additional project benefits are agreed to in writing between the Secretary and project proponents and shall be allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with all provisions of Federal Reclamation law (the Act of June 17, 1902, 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act. . XI Water Rights Protection 1101. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Rights Protection Act . 1102. Definition of water right In this title, the term water right means any surface or groundwater right filed, permitted, certified, confirmed, decreed, adjudicated, or otherwise recognized by a judicial proceeding or by the State in which the user acquires possession of the water or puts the water to beneficial use, including water rights for federally recognized Indian tribes. 1103. Treatment of water rights The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not— (1) condition or withhold, in whole or in part, the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on— (A) limitation or encumbrance of any water right, or the transfer of any water right (including joint and sole ownership), directly or indirectly to the United States or any other designee; or (B) any other impairment of any water right, in whole or in part, granted or otherwise recognized under State law, by Federal or State adjudication, decree, or other judgment, or pursuant to any interstate water compact; (2) require any water user (including any federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under State law as a condition of the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement; (3) assert jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless jurisdiction is asserted, and any regulatory or policy actions taken pursuant to such assertion are, consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, applicable State laws (including regulations) and policies governing the protection and use of groundwater resources; or (4) infringe on the rights and obligations of a State in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating the waters of the State originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the Federal Government. 1104. Recognition of State authority (a) In general In carrying out section 1103, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall— (1) recognize the longstanding authority of the States relating to evaluating, protecting, allocating, regulating, and adjudicating groundwater by any means, including a rulemaking, permitting, directive, water court adjudication, resource management planning, regional authority, or other policy; and (2) coordinate with the States in the adoption and implementation by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture of any rulemaking, policy, directive, management plan, or other similar Federal action so as to ensure that such actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, State groundwater laws and programs. (b) Effect on state water rights In carrying out this title, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not take any action that adversely affects— (1) any water rights granted by a State; (2) the authority of a State in adjudicating water rights; (3) definitions established by a State with respect to the term beneficial use , priority of water rights , or terms of use ; (4) terms and conditions of groundwater withdrawal, guidance and reporting procedures, and conservation and source protection measures established by a State; (5) the use of groundwater in accordance with State law; or (6) any other rights and obligations of a State established under State law. 1105. Effect of title (a) Effect on existing authority Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing legally recognized authority of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to issue, grant, or condition any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on Federal land subject to the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, respectively. (b) Effect on reclamation contracts Nothing in this title interferes with Bureau of Reclamation contracts entered into pursuant to the reclamation laws. (c) Effect on endangered species act Nothing in this title affects the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (d) Effect on federal reserved water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing or claimed reserved water rights of the Federal Government on land administered by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture. (e) Effect on federal power act Nothing in this title limits or expands authorities under sections 4(e), 10(j), or 18 of the Federal Power Act ( 16 U.S.C. 797(e) , 803(j), 811). (f) Effect on Indian water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any water right or treaty right of any federally recognized Indian tribe.

Passed the House of Representatives July 16, 2015. Karen L. Haas, Clerk

tv_txt: IB Union Calendar No. 146 114th CONGRESS 1st Session H. R. 2898 [Report No. 114–197, Part I] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES June 25, 2015 Mr. Valadao (for himself, Mr. McCarthy , Mr. Calvert , Mr. Nunes , Mr. LaMalfa , Mr. Denham , Mr. McClintock , Mr. Joyce , Mr. Diaz-Balart , Mr. Stewart , Mr. Simpson , Mr. Knight , Mr. Cook , Mr. Rodney Davis of Illinois , Mrs. Mimi Walters of California , Mr. Rohrabacher , Mr. Hunter , Mr. Royce , Mr. Issa , Mr. Zinke , Mr. Costa , Mr. Amodei , Mr. Hardy , Mr. Tipton , Mr. Newhouse , and Mrs. Lummis ) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources , and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture , for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned July 13, 2015 Additional sponsor: Mr. Gosar July 13, 2015 Reported from the Committee on Natural Resources with an amendment Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic July 13, 2015 The Committee on Agriculture discharged; committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed For text of introduced bill, see copy of bill as introduced on June 25, 2015 A BILL To provide drought relief in the State of California, and for other purposes.

1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Western Water and American Food Security Act of 2015 . (b) Table of contents The table of contents of this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings. Sec. 3. Definitions. Title I—ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE Sec. 101. Definitions. Sec. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science. Sec. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management. Title II—ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE Sec. 201. Definitions. Sec. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science. Sec. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River. Sec. 204. Pilot projects to implement calfed invasive species program. Title III—OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF Sec. 301. Definitions. Sec. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought. Sec. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates. Sec. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio. Sec. 305. Emergency environmental reviews. Sec. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations. Sec. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year. Sec. 308. Expediting water transfers. Sec. 309. Additional emergency consultation. Sec. 310. Additional storage at New Melones. Sec. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir. Sec. 312. Applicants. Sec. 313. San Joaquin River settlement. Sec. 314. Program for water rescheduling. Title IV—CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES Sec. 401. Studies. Sec. 402. Temperance Flat. Sec. 403. CALFED storage accountability. Sec. 404. Water storage project construction. Title V—WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS Sec. 501. Offset for State Water Project. Sec. 502. Area of origin protections. Sec. 503. No redirected adverse impacts. Sec. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors. Sec. 505. Effect on existing obligations. Title VI—MISCELLANEOUS Sec. 601. Authorized service area. Sec. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund. Sec. 603. Water supply accounting. Sec. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan. Sec. 605. Natural and artificially spawned species. Sec. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers. Sec. 607. Basin studies. Sec. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division. Sec. 609. Amendment to purposes. Sec. 610. Amendment to definition. Title VII—Water Supply Permitting Act Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Definitions. Sec. 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies. Sec. 704. Bureau responsibilities. Sec. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities. Sec. 706. Funding to process permits. Title VIII—Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Definitions. Sec. 803. Acceleration of studies. Sec. 804. Expedited completion of reports. Sec. 805. Project acceleration. Sec. 806. Annual report to Congress. Title IX—Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Sec. 901. Short title. Sec. 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies. Title X—Safety of Dams Sec. 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits. Title XI—Water Rights Protection Sec. 1101. Short title. Sec. 1102. Definition of water right. Sec. 1103. Treatment of water rights. Sec. 1104. Recognition of State authority. Sec. 1105. Effect of title. 2. Findings Congress finds as follows: (1) As established in the Proclamation of a State of Emergency issued by the Governor of the State on January 17, 2014, the State is experiencing record dry conditions. (2) Extremely dry conditions have persisted in the State since 2012, and the drought conditions are likely to persist into the future. (3) The water supplies of the State are at record-low levels, as indicated by the fact that all major Central Valley Project reservoir levels were at 20–35 percent of capacity as of September 25, 2014. (4) The lack of precipitation has been a significant contributing factor to the 6,091 fires experienced in the State as of September 15, 2014, and which covered nearly 400,000 acres. (5) According to a study released by the University of California, Davis in July 2014, the drought has led to the fallowing of 428,000 acres of farmland, loss of $810 million in crop revenue, loss of $203 million in dairy and other livestock value, and increased groundwater pumping costs by $454 million. The statewide economic costs are estimated to be $2.2 billion, with over 17,000 seasonal and part-time agricultural jobs lost. (6) CVPIA Level II water deliveries to refuges have also been reduced by 25 percent in the north of Delta region, and by 35 percent in the south of Delta region. (7) Only one-sixth of the usual acres of rice fields are being flooded this fall, which leads to a significant decline in habitat for migratory birds and an increased risk of disease at the remaining wetlands due to overcrowding of such birds. (8) The drought of 2013 through 2014 constitutes a serious emergency that poses immediate and severe risks to human life and safety and to the environment throughout the State. (9) The serious emergency described in paragraph (4) requires— (A) immediate and credible action that respects the complexity of the water system of the State and the importance of the water system to the entire State; and (B) policies that do not pit stakeholders against one another, which history shows only leads to costly litigation that benefits no one and prevents any real solutions. (10) Data on the difference between water demand and reliable water supplies for various regions of California south of the Delta, including the San Joaquin Valley, indicate there is a significant annual gap between reliable water supplies to meet agricultural, municipal and industrial, groundwater, and refuges water needs within the Delta Division, San Luis Unit and Friant Division of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and the demands of those areas. This gap varies depending on the methodology of the analysis performed, but can be represented in the following ways: (A) For Central Valley Project South-of-Delta water service contractors, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference in the amount of water available for allocation versus the maximum contract quantity, then the water supply deficits that have developed from 1992 to 2014 as a result of legislative and regulatory changes besides natural variations in hydrology during this timeframe range between 720,000 and 1,100,000 acre-feet. (B) For Central Valley Project and State Water Project water service contractors south of the Delta and north of the Tehachapi mountain range, if it is assumed that a water supply deficit is the difference between reliable water supplies, including maximum water contract deliveries, safe yield of groundwater, safe yield of local and surface supplies and long-term contracted water transfers, and water demands, including water demands from agriculture, municipal and industrial and refuge contractors, then the water supply deficit ranges between approximately 2,500,000 to 2,700,000 acre-feet. (11) Data of pumping activities at the Central Valley Project and State Water Project delta pumps identifies that, on average from Water Year 2009 to Water Year 2014, take of Delta smelt is 80 percent less than allowable take levels under the biological opinion issued December 15, 2008. (12) Data of field sampling activities of the Interagency Ecological Program located in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Estuary identifies that, on average from 2005 to 2013, the program takes 3,500 delta smelt during annual surveys with an authorized take level of 33,480 delta smelt annually—according to the biological opinion issued December 9, 1997. (13) In 2015, better information exists than was known in 2008 concerning conditions and operations that may or may not lead to high salvage events that jeopardize the fish populations, and what alternative management actions can be taken to avoid jeopardy. (14) Alternative management strategies, removing non-native species, enhancing habitat, monitoring fish movement and location in real-time, and improving water quality in the Delta can contribute significantly to protecting and recovering these endangered fish species, and at potentially lower costs to water supplies. (15) Resolution of fundamental policy questions concerning the extent to which application of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 affects the operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project is the responsibility of Congress. 3. Definitions In this Act: (1) Delta The term Delta means the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Suisun Marsh, as defined in sections 12220 and 29101 of the California Public Resources Code. (2) Export pumping rates The term export pumping rates means the rates of pumping at the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant and the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant, in the southern Delta. (3) Listed fish species The term listed fish species means listed salmonid species and the Delta smelt. (4) Listed salmonid species The term listed salmonid species means natural origin steelhead, natural origin genetic spring run Chinook, and genetic winter run Chinook salmon including hatchery steelhead or salmon populations within the evolutionary significant unit (ESU) or distinct population segment (DPS). (5) Negative impact on the long-term survival The term negative impact on the long-term survival means to reduce appreciably the likelihood of the survival of a listed species in the wild by reducing the reproduction, numbers, or distribution of that species. (6) OMR The term OMR means the Old and Middle River in the Delta. (7) OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second The term OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second means Old and Middle River flow of negative 5,000 cubic feet per second as described in— (A) the smelt biological opinion; and (B) the salmonid biological opinion. (8) Salmonid biological opinion The term salmonid biological opinion means the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009. (9) Smelt biological opinion The term smelt biological opinion means the biological opinion on the Long-Term Operational Criteria and Plan for coordination of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service on December 15, 2008. (10) State The term State means the State of California. I ADJUSTING DELTA SMELT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INCREASED REAL-TIME MONITORING AND UPDATED SCIENCE 101. Definitions In this title: (1) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (2) Delta smelt The term Delta smelt means the fish species with the scientific name Hypomesus transpacificus. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. 102. Revise incidental take level calculation for delta smelt to reflect new science (a) Review and modification Not later than October 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Director, in cooperation with other Federal, State, and local agencies, shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to complete a review and, modify the method used to calculate the incidental take levels for adult and larval/juvenile Delta smelt in the smelt biological opinion that takes into account all life stages, among other considerations— (1) salvage information collected since at least 1993; (2) updated or more recently developed statistical models; (3) updated scientific and commercial data; and (4) the most recent information regarding the environmental factors affecting Delta smelt salvage. (b) Modified incidental take level Unless the Director determines in writing that one or more of the requirements described in paragraphs (1) through (4) are not appropriate, the modified incidental take level described in subsection (a) shall— (1) be normalized for the abundance of prespawning adult Delta smelt using the Fall Midwater Trawl Index or other index; (2) be based on a simulation of the salvage that would have occurred from 1993 through 2012 if OMR flow has been consistent with the smelt biological opinions; (3) base the simulation on a correlation between annual salvage rates and historic water clarity and OMR flow during the adult salvage period; and (4) set the incidental take level as the 80 percent upper prediction interval derived from simulated salvage rates since at least 1993. 103. Factoring increased real-time monitoring and updated science into Delta smelt management (a) In general The Director shall use the best scientific and commercial data available to implement, continuously evaluate, and refine or amend, as appropriate, the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the smelt biological opinion, and any successor opinions or court order. The Secretary shall make all significant decisions under the smelt biological opinion, or any successor opinions that affect Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations, in writing, and shall document the significant facts upon which such decisions are made, consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code. (b) Increased Monitoring To Inform Real-Time Operations The Secretary shall conduct additional surveys, on an annual basis at the appropriate time of the year based on environmental conditions, in collaboration with other Delta science interests. (1) In implementing this section, the Secretary shall— (A) use the most accurate survey methods available for the detection of Delta smelt to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are distributed in relation to certain levels of turbidity, or other environmental factors that may influence salvage rate; and (B) use results from appropriate survey methods for the detection of Delta smelt to determine how the Central Valley Project and State Water Project may be operated more efficiently to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (2) During the period beginning on December 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, and in each successive December through March period, if suspended sediment loads enter the Delta from the Sacramento River and the suspended sediment loads appear likely to raise turbidity levels in the Old River north of the export pumps from values below 12 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU) to values above 12 NTU, the Secretary shall— (A) conduct daily monitoring using appropriate survey methods at locations including, but not limited to, the vicinity of Station 902 to determine the extent that adult Delta smelt are moving with turbidity toward the export pumps; and (B) use results from the monitoring surveys referenced in paragraph (A) to determine how increased trawling can inform daily real-time Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. (c) Periodic review of monitoring Within 12 months of the date of enactment of this title, and at least once every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary shall— (1) evaluate whether the monitoring program under subsection (b), combined with other monitoring programs for the Delta, is providing sufficient data to inform Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations to minimize salvage while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; and (2) determine whether the monitoring efforts should be changed in the short or long term to provide more useful data. (d) Delta smelt distribution study (1) In general No later than January 1, 2016, and at least every five years thereafter, the Secretary, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Department of Water Resources, public water agencies, and other interested entities, shall implement new targeted sampling and monitoring specifically designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, and the types of habitat occupied by Delta smelt during all life stages. (2) Sampling The Delta smelt distribution study shall, at a minimum— (A) include recording water quality and tidal data; (B) be designed to understand Delta smelt abundance, distribution, habitat use, and movement throughout the Delta, Suisun Marsh, and other areas occupied by the Delta smelt during all seasons; (C) consider areas not routinely sampled by existing monitoring programs, including wetland channels, near-shore water, depths below 35 feet, and shallow water; and (D) use survey methods, including sampling gear, best suited to collect the most accurate data for the type of sampling or monitoring. (e) Scientifically supported implementation of OMR flow requirements In implementing the provisions of the smelt biological opinion, or any successor biological opinion or court order, pertaining to management of reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers, the Secretary shall— (1) consider the relevant provisions of the biological opinion or any successor biological opinion; (2) to maximize Central Valley project and State Water Project water supplies, manage export pumping rates to achieve a reverse OMR flow rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second unless information developed by the Secretary under paragraphs (3) and (4) leads the Secretary to reasonably conclude that a less negative OMR flow rate is necessary to avoid a negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt. If information available to the Secretary indicates that a reverse OMR flow rate more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second can be established without an imminent negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, the Secretary shall manage export pumping rates to achieve that more negative OMR flow rate; (3) document in writing any significant facts about real-time conditions relevant to the determinations of OMR reverse flow rates, including— (A) whether targeted real-time fish monitoring in the Old River pursuant to this section, including monitoring in the vicinity of Station 902, indicates that a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt is imminent; and (B) whether near-term forecasts with available salvage models show under prevailing conditions that OMR flow of −5,000 cubic feet per second or higher will cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt; (4) show in writing that any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, including an explanation of the data examined and the connection between those data and the choice made, after considering— (A) the distribution of Delta smelt throughout the Delta; (B) the potential effects of documented, quantified entrainment on subsequent Delta smelt abundance; (C) the water temperature; (D) other significant factors relevant to the determination; and (E) whether any alternative measures could have a substantially lesser water supply impact; and (5) for any subsequent biological opinion, make the showing required in paragraph (4) for any determination to manage OMR reverse flow at rates less negative than the most negative limit in the biological opinion if the most negative limit in the biological opinion is more negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second. (f) Memorandum of Understanding No later than December 1, 2015, the Commissioner and the Director will execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to ensure that the smelt biological opinion is implemented in a manner that maximizes water supply while complying with applicable laws and regulations. If that MOU alters any procedures set out in the biological opinion, there will be no need to reinitiate consultation if those changes will not have a significant negative impact on the long-term survival on listed species and the implementation of the MOU would not be a major change to implementation of the biological opinion. Any change to procedures that does not create a significant negative impact on the long-term survival to listed species will not alter application of the take permitted by the incidental take statement in the biological opinion under section 7(o)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (g) Calculation of reverse flow in OMR Within 90 days of the enactment of this title, the Secretary is directed, in consultation with the California Department of Water Resources to revise the method used to calculate reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers for implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternatives in the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions, for the purpose of increasing Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies. The method of calculating reverse flow in Old and Middle Rivers shall be reevaluated not less than every five years thereafter to achieve maximum export pumping rates within limits established by the smelt biological opinion, the salmonid biological opinion, and any succeeding biological opinions. II ENSURING SALMONID MANAGEMENT IS RESPONSIVE TO NEW SCIENCE 201. Definitions In this title: (1) Assistant administrator The term Assistant Administrator means the Assistant Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Fisheries. (2) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Commerce. (3) Other affected interests The term other affected interests means the State of California, Indian tribes, subdivisions of the State of California, public water agencies and those who benefit directly and indirectly from the operations of the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (4) Commissioner The term Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Director The term Director means the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. 202. Process for ensuring salmonid management is responsive to new science (a) General directive The reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion allows for and anticipates adjustments in Central Valley Project and State Water Project operation parameters to reflect the best scientific and commercial data currently available, and authorizes efforts to test and evaluate improvements in operations that will meet applicable regulatory requirements and maximize Central Valley Project and State Water Project water supplies and reliability. Implementation of the reasonable and prudent alternative described in the salmonid biological opinion shall be adjusted accordingly as new scientific and commercial data are developed. The Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall fully utilize these authorities as described below. (b) Annual reviews of certain Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations No later than December 31, 2016, and at least annually thereafter: (1) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments to the initiation of Action IV.2.3 as set forth in the Biological Opinion and Conference Opinion on the Long-Term Operations of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation, issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, pertaining to negative OMR flows, subject to paragraph (5). (2) The Commissioner, with the assistance of the Assistant Administrator, shall examine and identify adjustments in the timing, triggers or other operational details relating to the implementation of pumping restrictions in Action IV.2.1 pertaining to the inflow to export ratio, subject to paragraph (5). (3) Pursuant to the consultation and assessments carried out under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall jointly make recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior and to the Secretary on adjustments to project operations that, in the exercise of the adaptive management provisions of the salmonid biological opinion, will reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project and are consistent with the requirements of applicable law and as further described in subsection (c). (4) The Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior shall direct the Commissioner and Assistant Administrator to implement recommended adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations for which the conditions under subsection (c) are met. (5) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall review and identify adjustments to Central Valley Project and State Water Project operations with water supply restrictions in any successor biological opinion to the salmonid biological opinion, applying the provisions of this section to those water supply restrictions where there are references to Actions IV.2.1 and IV.2.3. (c) Implementation of operational adjustments After reviewing the recommendations under subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary shall direct the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator to implement those operational adjustments, or any combination, for which, in aggregate— (1) the net effect on listed species is equivalent to those of the underlying project operational parameters in the salmonid biological opinion, taking into account both— (A) efforts to minimize the adverse effects of the adjustment to project operations; and (B) whatever additional actions or measures may be implemented in conjunction with the adjustments to operations to offset the adverse effects to listed species, consistent with (d), that are in excess of the adverse effects of the underlying operational parameters, if any; and (2) the effects of the adjustment can be reasonably expected to fall within the incidental take authorizations. (d) Evaluation of offsetting measures When examining and identifying opportunities to offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations under subsection (c)(1)(B), the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall take into account the potential species survival improvements that are likely to result from other measures which, if implemented in conjunction with such adjustments, would offset adverse effects, if any, of the adjustments. When evaluating offsetting measures, the Commissioner and the Assistant Administrator shall consider the type, timing and nature of the adverse effects, if any, to specific species and ensure that the measures likely provide equivalent overall benefits to the listed species in the aggregate, as long as the change will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (e) Framework for examining opportunities To minimize or offset the potential adverse effect of adjustments to operations Not later than December 31, 2015, and every five years thereafter, the Assistant Administrator shall, in collaboration with the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, based on the best scientific and commercial data available and for each listed salmonid species, issue estimates of the increase in through-Delta survival the Secretary expects to be achieved— (1) through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3 as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (2) through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1 as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641, based on a given rate of San Joaquin River inflow to the Delta and holding other relevant factors constant; (3) through physical habitat restoration improvements; (4) through predation control programs; (5) through the installation of temporary barriers, the management of Cross Channel Gates operations, and other projects affecting flow in the Delta; (6) through salvaging fish that have been entrained near the entrance to Clifton Court Forebay; (7) through any other management measures that may provide equivalent or better protections for listed species while maximizing export pumping rates without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species; and (8) through development and implementation of conservation hatchery programs for salmon and steelhead to aid in the recovery of listed salmon and steelhead species. (f) Survival estimates (1) To the maximum extent practicable, the Assistant Administrator shall make quantitative estimates of survival such as a range of percentage increases in through-Delta survival that could result from the management measures, and if the scientific information is lacking for quantitative estimates, shall do so on qualitative terms based upon the best available science. (2) If the Assistant Administrator provides qualitative survival estimates for a species resulting from one or more management measures, the Secretary shall, to the maximum extent feasible, rank the management measures described in subsection (e) in terms of their most likely expected contribution to increased through-Delta survival relative to the other measures. (3) If at the time the Assistant Administrator conducts the reviews under subsection (b), the Secretary has not issued an estimate of increased through-Delta survival from different management measures pursuant to subsection (e), the Secretary shall compare the protections to the species from different management measures based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time. (g) Comparison of adverse consequences for alternative management measures of equivalent protection for a species (1) For the purposes of this subsection and subsection (c)— (A) the alternative management measure or combination of alternative management measures identified in paragraph (2) shall be known as the equivalent alternative measure ; (B) the existing measure or measures identified in subparagraphs (2) (A), (B), (C), or (D) shall be known as the equivalent existing measure ; and (C) an equivalent increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species shall mean an increase in through-Delta survival rates that is equivalent when considering the change in through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species in the aggregate, and not the same change for each individual species, as long as the change in survival rates will not cause a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) As part of the reviews of project operations pursuant to subsection (b), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether any alternative management measures or combination of alternative management measures listed in subsection (e) (3) through (8) would provide an increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species that is equivalent to the increase in through-Delta survival rates for listed salmonid species from the following: (A) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to limiting OMR flow to a fixed rate of −5,000 cubic feet per second within the time period Action IV.2.3 is applicable. (B) Through restrictions on export pumping rates as specified by Action IV.2.3, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.3 that would provide additional water supplies, other than that described in subparagraph (A). (C) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to the restrictions in the April/May period imposed by the State Water Resources Control Board decision D–1641. (D) Through San Joaquin River inflow to export restrictions on export pumping rates specified within Action IV.2.1, as compared to a modification of Action IV.2.1 that would reduce water supply impacts of the salmonid biological opinion on the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project, other than that described in subparagraph (C). (3) If the Assistant Administrator identifies an equivalent alternative measure pursuant to paragraph (2), the Assistant Administrator shall determine whether— (A) it is technically feasible and within Federal jurisdiction to implement the equivalent alternative measure; (B) the State of California, or subdivision thereof, or local agency with jurisdiction has certified in writing within 10 calendar days to the Assistant Administrator that it has the authority and capability to implement the pertinent equivalent alternative measure; or (C) the adverse consequences of doing so are less than the adverse consequences of the equivalent existing measure, including a concise evaluation of the adverse consequences to other affected interests. (4) If the Assistant Administrator makes the determinations in subparagraph (3)(A) or (3)(B), the Commissioner shall adjust project operations to implement the equivalent alternative measure in place of the equivalent existing measure in order to increase export rates of pumping to the greatest extent possible while maintaining a net combined effect of equivalent through-Delta survival rates for the listed salmonid species. (h) Tracking Adverse Effects Beyond the Range of Effects Accounted for in the Salmonid Biological Opinion and Coordinated Operation with the Delta Smelt Biological Opinion (1) Among the adjustments to the project operations considered through the adaptive management process under this section, the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall— (A) evaluate the effects on listed salmonid species and water supply of the potential adjustment to operational criteria described in subparagraph (B); and (B) consider requiring that before some or all of the provisions of Actions IV.2.1. or IV.2.3 are imposed in any specific instance, the Assistant Administrator show that the implementation of these provisions in that specific instance is necessary to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (2) The Assistant Administrator, the Director, and the Commissioner, in coordination with State officials as appropriate, shall establish operational criteria to coordinate management of OMR flows under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions, in order to take advantage of opportunities to provide additional water supplies from the coordinated implementation of the biological opinions. (3) The Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall document the effects of any adaptive management decisions related to the coordinated operation of the smelt and salmonid biological opinions that prioritizes the maintenance of one species at the expense of the other. (i) Real-Time Monitoring and Management Notwithstanding the calendar based triggers described in the salmonid biological opinion Reasonable and Prudent Alternative (RPA), the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner shall not limit OMR reverse flow to −5,000 cubic feet per second unless current monitoring data indicate that this OMR flow limitation is reasonably required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species. (j) Evaluation and implementation of management measures If the quantitative estimates of through-Delta survival established by the Secretary for the adjustments in subsection (b)(2) exceed the through-Delta survival established for the RPAs, the Secretary shall evaluate and implement the management measures in subsection (b)(2) as a prerequisite to implementing the RPAs contained in the Salmonid Biological Opinion. (k) Accordance with other law Consistent with section 706 of title 5, United States Code, decisions of the Assistant Administrator and the Commissioner described in subsections (b) through (j) shall be made in writing, on the basis of best scientific and commercial data currently available, and shall include an explanation of the data examined at the connection between those data and the decisions made. 203. Non-Federal program to protect native anadromous fish in the Stanislaus River (a) Establishment of nonnative predator fish removal program The Secretary and the districts, in consultation with the Director, shall jointly develop and conduct a nonnative predator fish removal program to remove nonnative striped bass, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, black bass, and other nonnative predator fish species from the Stanislaus River. The program shall— (1) be scientifically based; (2) include methods to quantify the number and size of predator fish removed each year, the impact of such removal on the overall abundance of predator fish, and the impact of such removal on the populations of juvenile anadromous fish found in the Stanislaus River by, among other things, evaluating the number of juvenile anadromous fish that migrate past the rotary screw trap located at Caswell; (3) among other methods, use wire fyke trapping, portable resistance board weirs, and boat electrofishing; and (4) be implemented as quickly as possible following the issuance of all necessary scientific research. (b) Management The management of the program shall be the joint responsibility of the Secretary and the districts. Such parties shall work collaboratively to ensure the performance of the program, and shall discuss and agree upon, among other things, changes in the structure, management, personnel, techniques, strategy, data collection, reporting, and conduct of the program. (c) Conduct (1) In general By agreement between the Secretary and the districts, the program may be conducted by their own personnel, qualified private contractors hired by the districts, personnel of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, or a combination thereof. (2) Participation by the national marine fisheries service If the districts elect to conduct the program using their own personnel or qualified private contractors hired by them in accordance with paragraph (1), the Secretary may assign an employee of, on loan to, or otherwise assigned to the National Marine Fisheries Service, to be present for all activities performed in the field. Such presence shall ensure compliance with the agreed-upon elements specified in subsection (b). The districts shall pay the cost of such participation in accordance with subsection (d). (3) Timing of election The districts shall notify the Secretary of their election on or before October 15 of each calendar year of the program. Such an election shall apply to the work performed in the subsequent calendar year. (d) Funding (1) In general The districts shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the program. (2) Contributed funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the districts to carry out activities under the program. (3) Estimation of cost On or before December 1 of each year of the program, the Secretary shall submit to the districts an estimate of the cost to be incurred by the National Marine Fisheries Service for the program in the following calendar year, if any, including the cost of any data collection and posting under subsection (e). If an amount equal to the estimate is not provided through contributions pursuant to paragraph (2) before December 31 of that year— (A) the Secretary shall have no obligation to conduct the program activities otherwise scheduled for such following calendar year until such amount is contributed by the districts; and (B) the districts may not conduct any aspect of the program until such amount is contributed by the districts. (4) Accounting On or before September 1 of each year, the Secretary shall provide to the districts an accounting of the costs incurred by the Secretary for the program in the preceding calendar year. If the amount contributed by the districts pursuant to paragraph (2) for that year was greater than the costs incurred by the Secretary, the Secretary shall— (A) apply the excess contributions to costs of activities to be performed by the Secretary under the program, if any, in the next calendar year; or (B) if no such activities are to be performed, repay the excess contribution to the districts. (e) Posting and evaluation On or before the 15th day of each month, the Secretary shall post on the Internet website of the National Marine Fisheries Service a tabular summary of the raw data collected under the program in the preceding month. (f) Implementation The program is hereby found to be consistent with the requirements of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). No provision, plan or definition established or required by the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) shall be used to prohibit the imposition of the program, or to prevent the accomplishment of its goals. (g) Treatment of striped bass For purposes of the application of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) with respect to the program, striped bass shall not be treated as anadromous fish. (h) Definition For the purposes of this section, the term districts means the Oakdale Irrigation District and the South San Joaquin Irrigation District, California. 204. Pilot projects to implement calfed invasive species program (a) In general Not later than January 1, 2017, the Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Secretary of Commerce, the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and other relevant agencies and interested parties, shall begin pilot projects to implement the invasive species control program authorized pursuant to section 103(d)(6)(A)(iv) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1690). (b) Requirements The pilot projects shall— (1) seek to reduce invasive aquatic vegetation, predators, and other competitors which contribute to the decline of native listed pelagic and anadromous species that occupy the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta; and (2) remove, reduce, or control the effects of species, including Asiatic clams, silversides, gobies, Brazilian water weed, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, bluegill, white and channel catfish, and brown bullheads. (c) Sunset The authorities provided under this subsection shall expire seven years after the Secretaries commence implementation of the pilot projects pursuant to subsection (a). (d) Emergency environmental reviews To expedite the environmentally beneficial programs for the conservation of threatened and endangered species, the Secretaries shall consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for the projects pursuant to subsection (a). III OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY AND DROUGHT RELIEF 301. Definitions In this title: (1) Central valley project The term Central Valley Project has the meaning given the term in section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4707). (2) Reclamation project The term Reclamation Project means a project constructed pursuant to the authorities of the reclamation laws and whose facilities are wholly or partially located in the State. (3) Secretaries The term Secretaries means— (A) the Secretary of Agriculture; (B) the Secretary of Commerce; and (C) the Secretary of the Interior. (4) State water project The term State Water Project means the water project described by California Water Code section 11550 et seq. and operated by the California Department of Water Resources. (5) State The term State means the State of California. 302. Operational flexibility in times of drought (a) Water supplies For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley Index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries shall provide the maximum quantity of water supplies practicable to all individuals or district who receive Central Valley Project water under water service or repayments contracts, water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, or refuge contracts or agreements entered into prior to or after the date of enactment of this title; State Water Project contractors, and any other tribe, locality, water agency, or municipality in the State, by approving, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations), projects and operations to provide additional water supplies as quickly as practicable based on available information to address the emergency conditions. (b) Administration In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) issue all necessary permit decisions under the authority of the Secretaries not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretaries receive a completed application from the State to place and use temporary barriers or operable gates in Delta channels to improve water quantity and quality for the State Water Project and the Central Valley Project south of Delta water contractors and other water users, on the condition that the barriers or operable gates— (A) do not result in a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of listed species within the Delta and provide benefits or have a neutral impact on in-Delta water user water quality; and (B) are designed so that formal consultations under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536 ) are not necessary; (2) require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Commissioner of Reclamation— (A) to complete, not later than 30 days after the date on which the Director or the Commissioner receives a complete written request for water transfer, all requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) necessary to make final permit decisions on the request; and (B) to approve any water transfer request described in subparagraph (A) to maximize the quantity of water supplies available for nonhabitat uses, on the condition that actions associated with the water transfer comply with applicable Federal laws (including regulations); (3) adopt a 1:1 inflow to export ratio, as measured as a 3-day running average at Vernalis during the period beginning on April 1, and ending on May 31, absent a determination in writing that a more restrictive inflow to export ratio is required to avoid a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of a listed salmonid species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); provided that the 1:1 inflow to export ratio shall apply for the increment of increased flow of the San Joaquin River resulting from the voluntary sale, transfers, or exchanges of water from agencies with rights to divert water from the San Joaquin River or its tributaries and provided that the movement of the acquired, transferred, or exchanged water through the Delta consistent with the Central Valley Project’s and the State Water Project’s permitted water rights and provided that movement of the Central Valley Project water is consistent with the requirements of section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act; and (4) allow and facilitate, consistent with existing priorities, water transfers through the C.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant or the Harvey O. Banks Pumping Plant from April 1 to November 30 provided water transfers comply with State law, including the California Environmental Quality Act. (c) Accelerated project decision and elevation (1) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries shall use the expedited procedures under this subsection to make final decisions relating to a Federal project or operation, or to local or State projects or operations that require decisions by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Commerce to provide additional water supplies if the project’s or operation’s purpose is to provide relief for emergency drought conditions pursuant to subsections (a) and (b). (2) Request for resolution (A) In general On request by the Governor of the State, the Secretaries referenced in paragraph (1), or the head of another Federal agency responsible for carrying out a review of a project, as applicable, the Secretary of the Interior shall convene a final project decision meeting with the heads of all relevant Federal agencies to decide whether to approve a project to provide relief for emergency drought conditions. (B) Meeting The Secretary of the Interior shall convene a meeting requested under subparagraph (A) not later than 7 days after the date on which the meeting request is received. (3) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior shall notify the heads of all relevant Federal agencies of the request, including information on the project to be reviewed and the date of the meeting. (4) Decision Not later than 10 days after the date on which a meeting is requested under paragraph (2), the head of the relevant Federal agency shall issue a final decision on the project, subject to subsection (e)(2). (5) Meeting convened by secretary The Secretary of the Interior may convene a final project decision meeting under this subsection at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under paragraph (2). (d) Application To the extent that a Federal agency, other than the agencies headed by the Secretaries, has a role in approving projects described in subsections (a) and (b), this section shall apply to those Federal agencies. (e) Limitation Nothing in this section authorizes the Secretaries to approve projects— (1) that would otherwise require congressional authorization; or (2) without following procedures required by applicable law. (f) Drought Plan For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior, in consultation with appropriate State officials, shall develop a drought operations plan that is consistent with the provisions of this Act including the provisions that are intended to provide additional water supplies that could be of assistance during the current drought. 303. Operation of cross-channel gates (a) In general The Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the Interior shall jointly— (1) authorize and implement activities to ensure that the Delta Cross Channel Gates remain open to the maximum extent practicable using findings from the United States Geological Survey on diurnal behavior of juvenile salmonids, timed to maximize the peak flood tide period and provide water supply and water quality benefits for the duration of the drought emergency declaration of the State, and for the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, consistent with operational criteria and monitoring criteria set forth into the Order Approving a Temporary Urgency Change in License and Permit Terms in Response to Drought Conditions of the California State Water Resources Control Board, effective January 31, 2014 (or a successor order) and other authorizations associated with it; (2) with respect to the operation of the Delta Cross Channel Gates described in paragraph (1), collect data on the impact of that operation on— (A) species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ); (B) water quality; and (C) water supply; (3) collaborate with the California Department of Water Resources to install a deflection barrier at Georgiana Slough in coordination with Delta Cross Channel Gate diurnal operations to protect migrating salmonids, consistent with knowledge gained from activities carried out during 2014 and 2015; (4) evaluate the combined salmonid survival in light of activities carried out pursuant to paragraphs (1) through (3) in deciding how to operate the Delta Cross Channel gates to enhance salmonid survival and water supply benefits; and (5) not later than May 15, 2016, submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate a notice and explanation on the extent to which the gates are able to remain open. (b) Recommendations After assessing the information collected under subsection (a), the Secretary of the Interior shall recommend revisions to the operation of the Delta Cross-Channel Gates, to the Central Valley Project, and to the State Water Project, including, if appropriate, any reasonable and prudent alternative contained in the biological opinion issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service on June 4, 2009, that are likely to produce water supply benefits without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the listed fish species within the Delta or on water quality. 304. Flexibility for export/inflow ratio For the period of time such that in any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation shall continue to vary the averaging period of the Delta Export/Inflow ratio pursuant to the California State Water Resources Control Board decision D1641— (1) to operate to a 35-percent Export/Inflow ratio with a 3-day averaging period on the rising limb of a Delta inflow hydrograph; and (2) to operate to a 14-day averaging period on the falling limb of the Delta inflow hydrograph. 305. Emergency environmental reviews (a) NEPA compliance To minimize the time spent carrying out environmental reviews and to deliver water quickly that is needed to address emergency drought conditions in the State during the duration of an emergency drought declaration, the Secretaries shall, in carrying out this Act, consult with the Council on Environmental Quality in accordance with section 1506.11 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations), to develop alternative arrangements to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) during the emergency. (b) Determinations For the purposes of this section, a Secretary may deem a project to be in compliance with all necessary environmental regulations and reviews if the Secretary determines that the immediate implementation of the project is necessary to address— (1) human health and safety; or (2) a specific and imminent loss of agriculture production upon which an identifiable region depends for 25 percent or more of its tax revenue used to support public services including schools, fire or police services, city or county health facilities, unemployment services or other associated social services. 306. Increased flexibility for regular project operations The Secretaries shall, consistent with applicable laws (including regulations)— (1) in coordination with the California Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, implement offsite upstream projects in the Delta and upstream of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin basins that offset the effects on species listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) due to activities carried out pursuant this Act, as determined by the Secretaries; (2) manage reverse flow in the Old and Middle Rivers at −6,100 cubic feet per second if real-time monitoring indicates that flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second or more negative can be established for specific periods without causing a significant negative impact on the long-term survival of the Delta smelt, or if real-time monitoring does not support flows of −6,100 cubic feet per second than manage OMR flows at −5,000 cubic feet per second subject to section 103(e) (3) and (4); and (3) use all available scientific tools to identify any changes to real-time operations of the Bureau of Reclamation, State, and local water projects that could result in the availability of additional water supplies. 307. Temporary operational flexibility for first few storms of the water year (a) In general Consistent with avoiding a significant negative impact on the long-term survival in the short term upon listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and other environmental protections under subsection (e), the Secretaries shall authorize the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project, combined, to operate at levels that result in negative OMR flows at −7,500 cubic feet per second (based on United States Geological Survey gauges on Old and Middle Rivers) daily average for 56 cumulative days after October 1 as described in subsection (c). (b) Days of temporary operational flexibility The temporary operational flexibility described in subsection (a) shall be authorized on days that the California Department of Water Resources determines the daily average river flow of the Sacramento River is at, or above, 17,000 cubic feet per second as measured at the Sacramento River at Freeport gauge maintained by the United States Geologic Survey. (c) Compliance with Endangered Species Act authorizations In carrying out this section, the Secretaries may continue to impose any requirements under the smelt and salmonid biological opinions during any period of temporary operational flexibility as they determine are reasonably necessary to avoid an additional significant negative impacts on the long-term survival of a listed fish species beyond the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, provided that the requirements imposed do not reduce water supplies available for the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project. (d) Other environmental protections (1) State law The Secretaries’ actions under this section shall be consistent with applicable regulatory requirements under State law. (2) First sediment flush During the first flush of sediment out of the Delta in each water year, and provided that such determination is based upon objective evidence, OMR flow may be managed at rates less negative than −5,000 cubic feet per second for a minimum duration to avoid movement of adult Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) to areas in the southern Delta that would be likely to increase entrainment at Central Valley Project and State Water Project pumping plants. (3) Applicability of opinion This section shall not affect the application of the salmonid biological opinion from April 1 to May 31, unless the Secretary of Commerce finds that some or all of such applicable requirements may be adjusted during this time period to provide emergency water supply relief without resulting in additional adverse effects beyond those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In addition to any other actions to benefit water supply, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce shall consider allowing through-Delta water transfers to occur during this period if they can be accomplished consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. Water transfers solely or exclusively through the State Water Project are not required to be consistent with section 3405(a)(1)(H) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act. (4) Monitoring During operations under this section, the Commissioner of Reclamation, in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, shall undertake a monitoring program and other data gathering to ensure incidental take levels are not exceeded, and to identify potential negative impacts and actions, if any, necessary to mitigate impacts of the temporary operational flexibility to species listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (e) Technical adjustments to target period If, before temporary operational flexibility has been implemented on 56 cumulative days, the Secretaries operate the Central Valley Project and the State Water Project combined at levels that result in OMR flows less negative than −7,500 cubic feet per second during days of temporary operational flexibility as defined in subsection (c), the duration of such operation shall not be counted toward the 56 cumulative days specified in subsection (a). (f) Emergency consultation; effect on running averages (1) If necessary to implement the provisions of this section, the Commissioner is authorized to take any action necessary to implement this section for up to 56 cumulative days. If during the 56 cumulative days the Commissioner determines that actions necessary to implement this section will exceed 56 days, the Commissioner shall use the emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and its implementing regulation at section 402.05 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, to temporarily adjust the operating criteria under the biological opinions— (A) solely for extending beyond the 56 cumulative days for additional days of temporary operational flexibility— (i) no more than necessary to achieve the purposes of this section consistent with the environmental protections in subsections (d) and (e); and (ii) including, as appropriate, adjustments to ensure that the actual flow rates during the periods of temporary operational flexibility do not count toward the 5-day and 14-day running averages of tidally filtered daily OMR flow requirements under the biological opinions, or (B) for other adjustments to operating criteria or to take other urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner. (2) Following the conclusion of the 56 cumulative days of temporary operational flexibility, or the extended number of days covered by the emergency consultation procedures, the Commissioner shall not reinitiate consultation on these adjusted operations, and no mitigation shall be required, if the effects on listed fish species of these operations under this section remain within the range of those authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). If the Commissioner reinitiates consultation, no mitigation measures shall be required. (g) Level of detail required for analysis In articulating the determinations required under this section, the Secretaries shall fully satisfy the requirements herein but shall not be expected to provide a greater level of supporting detail for the analysis than feasible to provide within the short timeframe permitted for timely decisionmaking in response to changing conditions in the Delta. 308. Expediting water transfers (a) In general Section 3405(a) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4709(a)) is amended— (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (3) as paragraphs (4) through (6), respectively; (2) in the matter preceding paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in the first sentence, by striking In order to and inserting the following: (1) In general In order to ; and (B) in the second sentence, by striking Except as provided herein and inserting the following: (3) Terms Except as otherwise provided in this section ; (3) by inserting before paragraph (3) (as so designated) the following: (2) Expedited transfer of water The Secretary shall take all necessary actions to facilitate and expedite transfers of Central Valley Project water in accordance with— (A) this Act; (B) any other applicable provision of the reclamation laws; and (C) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). ; (4) in paragraph (4) (as so designated)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking to combination and inserting or combination ; and (B) by striking 3405(a)(2) of this title each place it appears and inserting (5) ; (5) in paragraph (5) (as so designated), by adding at the end the following: (E) The contracting district from which the water is coming, the agency, or the Secretary shall determine if a written transfer proposal is complete within 45 days after the date of submission of the proposal. If the contracting district or agency or the Secretary determines that the proposal is incomplete, the district or agency or the Secretary shall state with specificity what must be added to or revised for the proposal to be complete. ; and (6) in paragraph (6) (as so designated), by striking 3405(a)(1)(A)–(C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of this title and inserting (A) through (C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (L), and (M) of paragraph (4) . (b) Conforming amendments The Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ) is amended— (1) in section 3407(c)(1) (106 Stat. 4726), by striking 3405(a)(1)(C) and inserting 3405(a)(4)(C) ; and (2) in section 3408(i)(1) (106 Stat. 4729), by striking 3405(a)(1) (A) and (J) of this title and inserting subparagraphs (A) and (J) of section 3405(a)(4) . 309. Additional emergency consultation For adjustments to operating criteria other than under section 308 of this Act or to take urgent actions to address water supply shortages for the least amount of time or volume of diversion necessary as determined by the Commissioner of Reclamation, no mitigation measures shall be required during any year that the Sacramento Valley index is 6.5 or lower, or at the request of the State of California, and until two succeeding years following either of those events have been completed where the final Sacramento Valley Index is 7.8 or greater, and any mitigation measures imposed must be based on quantitative data and required only to the extent that such data demonstrates actual harm to species. 310. Additional storage at New Melones The Commissioner of Reclamation is directed to work with local water and irrigation districts in the Stanislaus River Basin to ascertain the water storage made available by the Draft Plan of Operations in New Melones Reservoir (DRPO) for water conservation programs, conjunctive use projects, water transfers, rescheduled project water and other projects to maximize water storage and ensure the beneficial use of the water resources in the Stanislaus River Basin. All such programs and projects shall be implemented according to all applicable laws and regulations. The source of water for any such storage program at New Melones Reservoir shall be made available under a valid water right, consistent with the State of California water transfer guidelines and any other applicable State water law. The Commissioner shall inform the Congress within 18 months setting forth the amount of storage made available by the DRPO that has been put to use under this program, including proposals received by the Commissioner from interested parties for the purpose of this section. 311. Regarding the operation of Folsom Reservoir The Secretary of the Interior, in collaboration with the Sacramento Water Forum, shall expedite evaluation, completion and implementation of the Modified Lower American River Flow Management Standard developed by the Water Forum in 2015 to improve water supply reliability for Central Valley Project American River water contractors and resource protection in the lower American River during consecutive dry-years under current and future demand and climate change conditions. 312. Applicants In the event that the Bureau of Reclamation or another Federal agency initiates or reinitiates consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2) ), with respect to construction or operation of the Central Valley Project and State Water Project, or any part thereof, the State Water Project contractors and the Central Valley Project contractors will be accorded all the rights and responsibilities extended to applicants in the consultation process. 313. San Joaquin River settlement (a) California State law satisfied by warm water fishery (1) In general Sections 5930 through 5948 of the California Fish and Game Code, and all applicable Federal laws, including the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act ( Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658–LKK/GGH), shall be satisfied by the existence of a warm water fishery in the San Joaquin River below Friant Dam, but upstream of Gravelly Ford. (2) Definition of warm water fishery For the purposes of this section, the term warm water fishery means a water system that has an environment suitable for species of fish other than salmon (including all subspecies) and trout (including all subspecies). (b) Repeal of the San Joaquin River settlement As of the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall cease any action to implement the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act (subtitle A of title X of Public Law 111–11 ) and the Stipulation of Settlement (Natural Resources Defense Council, et al. v. Kirk Rodgers, et al., Eastern District of California, No. Civ. S–88–1658 LKK/GGH). 314. Program for water rescheduling By December 31, 2015, the Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, including rescheduling guidelines for Shasta and Folsom Reservoirs, to allow existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed, and refuge service and municipal and industrial water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed and the American River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project contracts, from one year to the next; provided, that the program is consistent with existing rescheduling guidelines as utilized by the Bureau of Reclamation for rescheduling water for Central Valley Project water service contractors that are located South of the Delta. IV CALFED STORAGE FEASIBILITY STUDIES 401. Studies The Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, shall— (1) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(I) and (ii)(II) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1684) and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2015; (2) complete the feasibility studies described in clauses (i)(II) and (ii)(I) of section 103(d)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 and submit such studies to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than November 30, 2016; (3) complete the feasibility study described in section 103(f)(1)(A) of Public Law 108–361 (118 Stat. 1694) and submit such study to the appropriate Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than December 31, 2017; (4) provide a progress report on the status of the feasibility studies referred to in paragraphs (1) through (3) to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and each 180 days thereafter until December 31, 2017, as applicable. The report shall include timelines for study completion, draft environmental impact statements, final environmental impact statements, and Records of Decision; (5) in conducting any feasibility study under this Act, the reclamation laws, the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act ( 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq. ), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), and other applicable law, for the purposes of determining feasibility the Secretary shall document, delineate, and publish costs directly relating to the engineering and construction of a water storage project separately from the costs resulting from regulatory compliance or the construction of auxiliary facilities necessary to achieve regulatory compliance; and (6) communicate, coordinate and cooperate with public water agencies that contract with the United States for Central Valley Project water and that are expected to participate in the cost pools that will be created for the projects proposed in the feasibility studies under this section. 402. Temperance Flat (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section: (1) Project The term Project means the Temperance Flat Reservoir Project on the Upper San Joaquin River. (2) RMP The term RMP means the document titled Bakersfield Field Office, Record of Decision and Approved Resource Management Plan, dated December 2014. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Applicability of RMP The RMP and findings related thereto shall have no effect on or applicability to the Secretary’s determination of feasibility of, or on any findings or environmental review documents related to— (1) the Project; or (2) actions taken by the Secretary pursuant to section 103(d)(1)(A)(ii)(II) of the Bay-Delta Authorization Act (title I of Public Law 108–361 ). (c) Duties of secretary upon determination of feasibility If the Secretary finds the Project to be feasible, the Secretary shall manage the land recommended in the RMP for designation under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ) in a manner that does not impede any environmental reviews, preconstruction, construction, or other activities of the Project, regardless of whether or not the Secretary submits any official recommendation to Congress under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. (d) Reserved water rights Effective December 22, 2014, there shall be no Federal reserved water rights to any segment of the San Joaquin River related to the Project as a result of any designation made under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1271 et seq. ). 403. CALFED storage accountability If the Secretary of the Interior fails to provide the feasibility studies described in section 401 to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate by the times prescribed, the Secretary shall notify each committee chair individually in person on the status of each project once a month until the feasibility study for that project is provided to Congress. 404. Water storage project construction (a) Partnership and agreements The Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, may partner or enter into an agreement on the water storage projects identified in section 103(d)(1) of the Water Supply Reliability and Environmental Improvement Act ( Public Law 108–361 ) (and Acts supplemental and amendatory to the Act) with local joint powers authorities formed pursuant to State law by irrigation districts and other local water districts and local governments within the applicable hydrologic region, to advance those projects. (b) Authorization for project If the Secretary determines a project described in section 402(a)(1) and (2) is feasible, the Secretary is authorized to carry out the project in a manner that is substantially in accordance with the recommended plan, and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided that no Federal funding shall be used to construct the project. V WATER RIGHTS PROTECTIONS 501. Offset for State Water Project (a) Implementation impacts The Secretary of the Interior shall confer with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in connection with the implementation of this Act on potential impacts to any consistency determination for operations of the State Water Project issued pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1. (b) Additional yield If, as a result of the application of this Act, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife— (1) revokes the consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 that are applicable to the State Water Project; (2) amends or issues one or more new consistency determinations pursuant to California Fish and Game Code section 2080.1 in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion; or (3) requires take authorization under California Fish and Game Code section 2081 for operation of the State Water Project in a manner that directly or indirectly results in reduced water supply to the State Water Project as compared with the water supply available under the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion, and as a consequence of the Department’s action, Central Valley Project yield is greater than it would have been absent the Department’s actions, then that additional yield shall be made available to the State Water Project for delivery to State Water Project contractors to offset losses resulting from the Department’s action. (c) Notification related to environmental protections The Secretary of the Interior shall immediately notify the Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in writing if the Secretary of the Interior determines that implementation of the smelt biological opinion and the salmonid biological opinion consistent with this Act reduces environmental protections for any species covered by the opinions. 502. Area of origin protections (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to adhere to California’s water rights laws governing water rights priorities and to honor water rights senior to those held by the United States for operation of the Central Valley Project, regardless of the source of priority, including any appropriative water rights initiated prior to December 19, 1914, as well as water rights and other priorities perfected or to be perfected pursuant to California Water Code Part 2 of Division 2. Article 1.7 (commencing with section 1215 of chapter 1 of part 2 of division 2, sections 10505, 10505.5, 11128, 11460, 11461, 11462, and 11463, and sections 12200 to 12220, inclusive). (b) Diversions Any action undertaken by the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to both this Act and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that requires that diversions from the Sacramento River or the San Joaquin River watersheds upstream of the Delta be bypassed shall not be undertaken in a manner that alters the water rights priorities established by California law. (c) Endangered species act Nothing in this title alters the existing authorities provided to and obligations placed upon the Federal Government under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), as amended. (d) Contracts With respect to individuals and entities with water rights on the Sacramento River, the mandates of this section may be met, in whole or in part, through a contract with the Secretary of the Interior executed pursuant to section 14 of Public Law 76–260 ; 53 Stat. 1187 ( 43 U.S.C. 389 ) that is in conformance with the Sacramento River Settlement Contracts renewed by the Secretary of the Interior in 2005. 503. No redirected adverse impacts (a) In general The Secretary of the Interior shall ensure that, except as otherwise provided for in a water service or repayment contract, actions taken in compliance with legal obligations imposed pursuant to or as a result of this Act, including such actions under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) and other applicable Federal and State laws, shall not directly or indirectly— (1) result in the involuntary reduction of water supply or fiscal impacts to individuals or districts who receive water from either the State Water Project or the United States under water rights settlement contracts, exchange contracts, water service contracts, repayment contracts, or water supply contracts; or (2) cause redirected adverse water supply or fiscal impacts to those within the Sacramento River watershed, the San Joaquin River watershed or the State Water Project service area. (b) Costs To the extent that costs are incurred solely pursuant to or as a result of this Act and would not otherwise have been incurred by any entity or public or local agency or subdivision of the State of California, such costs shall not be borne by any such entity, agency, or subdivision of the State of California, unless such costs are incurred on a voluntary basis. (c) Rights and obligations not modified or amended Nothing in this Act shall modify or amend the rights and obligations of the parties to any existing— (1) water service, repayment, settlement, purchase, or exchange contract with the United States, including the obligation to satisfy exchange contracts and settlement contracts prior to the allocation of any other Central Valley Project water; or (2) State Water Project water supply or settlement contract with the State. 504. Allocations for Sacramento Valley contractors (a) Allocations (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2) and subsection (b), the Secretary of the Interior is directed, in the operation of the Central Valley Project, to allocate water provided for irrigation purposes to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed in compliance with the following: (A) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Wet year. (B) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in an Above Normal year. (C) Not less than 100 percent of their contract quantities in a Below Normal year that is preceded by an Above Normal or a Wet year. (D) Not less than 50 percent of their contract quantities in a Dry year that is preceded by a Below Normal, an Above Normal, or a Wet year. (E) In all other years not identified herein, the allocation percentage for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed shall not be less than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors, up to 100 percent; provided, that nothing herein shall preclude an allocation to existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed that is greater than twice the allocation percentage to south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors. (2) Conditions The Secretary’s actions under paragraph (a) shall be subject to— (A) the priority of individuals or entities with Sacramento River water rights, including those with Sacramento River Settlement Contracts, that have priority to the diversion and use of Sacramento River water over water rights held by the United States for operations of the Central Valley Project; (B) the United States obligation to make a substitute supply of water available to the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors; and (C) the Secretary’s obligation to make water available to managed wetlands pursuant to section 3406(d) of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ). (b) Protection of municipal and industrial supplies Nothing in subsection (a) shall be deemed to— (1) modify any provision of a water service contract that addresses municipal and industrial water shortage policies of the Secretary; (2) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to adopt or modify municipal and industrial water shortage policies; (3) affect or limit the authority of the Secretary to implement municipal and industrial water shortage policies; or (4) affect allocations to Central Valley Project municipal and industrial contractors pursuant to such policies. Neither subsection (a) nor the Secretary’s implementation of subsection (a) shall constrain, govern or affect, directly, the operations of the Central Valley Project’s American River Division or any deliveries from that Division, its units or facilities. (c) No effect on allocations This section shall not— (1) affect the allocation of water to Friant Division contractors; or (2) result in the involuntary reduction in contract water allocations to individuals or entities with contracts to receive water from the Friant Division. (d) Program for water rescheduling The Secretary of the Interior shall develop and implement a program, not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, to provide for the opportunity for existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed to reschedule water, provided for under their Central Valley Project water service contracts, from one year to the next. (e) Definitions In this section: (1) The term existing Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors within the Sacramento River Watershed means water service contractors within the Shasta, Trinity, and Sacramento River Divisions of the Central Valley Project, that have a water service contract in effect, on the date of the enactment of this section, that provides water for irrigation. (2) The year type terms used in subsection (a) have the meaning given those year types in the Sacramento Valley Water Year Type (40–30–30) Index. 505. Effect on existing obligations Nothing in this Act preempts or modifies any existing obligation of the United States under Federal reclamation law to operate the Central Valley Project in conformity with State law, including established water rights priorities. VI MISCELLANEOUS 601. Authorized service area (a) In general The authorized service area of the Central Valley Project authorized under the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) shall include the area within the boundaries of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, as in existence on the date of enactment of this Act. (b) Long-Term contract (1) In general Notwithstanding the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4706) and subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary of the Interior, in accordance with the Federal reclamation laws, shall enter into a long-term contract with the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, under terms and conditions mutually agreeable to the parties, for the delivery of up to 900 acre-feet of Central Valley Project water for municipal and industrial use. (2) Limitation Central Valley Project water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under paragraph (1) shall be limited to the minimal quantity necessary to meet the immediate needs of the Kettleman City Community Services District, California, in the event that local supplies or State Water Project allocations are insufficient to meet those needs. (c) Permit The Secretary shall apply for a permit with the State for a joint place of use for water deliveries authorized under the contract entered into under subsection (b) with respect to the expanded service area under subsection (a), consistent with State law. (d) Additional costs If any additional infrastructure, water treatment, or related costs are needed to implement this section, those costs shall be the responsibility of the non-Federal entity. 602. Oversight board for Restoration Fund (a) Plan; advisory board Section 3407 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act ( Public Law 102–575 ; 106 Stat. 4726) is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) Plan on expenditure of funds (1) In general For each fiscal year, the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall submit to Congress a plan for the expenditure of all of the funds deposited into the Restoration Fund during the preceding fiscal year. (2) Contents The plan shall include an analysis of the cost-effectiveness of each expenditure. (h) Advisory board (1) Establishment There is established the Restoration Fund Advisory Board (referred to in this section as the Advisory Board ), which shall be composed of 11 members appointed by the Secretary. (2) Membership (A) In general The Secretary shall appoint members to the Advisory Board that represent the various Central Valley Project stakeholders, of whom— (i) 4 members shall be agricultural users of the Central Valley Project, including at least one agricultural user from north-of-the-Delta and one agricultural user from south-of-the-Delta; (ii) 2 members shall be municipal and industrial users of the Central Valley Project, including one municipal and industrial user from north-of-the-Delta and one municipal and industrial user from south-of-the-Delta; (iii) 3 members shall be power contractors of the Central Valley Project, including at least one power contractor from north-of-the-Delta and from south-of-the-Delta; (iv) 1 member shall be a representative of a Federal national wildlife refuge that contracts for Central Valley Project water supplies with the Bureau of Reclamation; and (v) 1 member shall have expertise in the economic impacts of the changes to water operations. (B) Observer The Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce may each designate a representative to act as an observer of the Advisory Board. (C) Chair The Secretary shall appoint 1 of the members described in subparagraph (A) to serve as Chair of the Advisory Board. (3) Terms The term of each member of the Advisory Board shall be 4 years. (4) Date of appointments The appointment of a member of the Panel shall be made not later than— (A) the date that is 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act; or (B) in the case of a vacancy on the Panel described in subsection (c)(2), the date that is 120 days after the date on which the vacancy occurs. (5) Vacancies (A) In general A vacancy on the Panel shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made and shall be subject to any conditions that applied with respect to the original appointment. (B) Filling unexpired term An individual chosen to fill a vacancy shall be appointed for the unexpired term of the member replaced. (C) Expiration of terms The term of any member shall not expire before the date on which the successor of the member takes office. (6) Removal A member of the Panel may be removed from office by the Secretary of the Interior. (7) Federal advisory committee act The Panel shall not be subject to the requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. (8) Duties The duties of the Advisory Board are— (A) to meet not less frequently than semiannually to develop and make recommendations to the Secretary regarding priorities and spending levels on projects and programs carried out under this title; (B) to ensure that any advice given or recommendation made by the Advisory Board reflects the independent judgment of the Advisory Board; (C) not later than December 31, 2015, and annually thereafter, to submit to the Secretary and Congress the recommendations under subparagraph (A); and (D) not later than December 31, 2015, and biennially thereafter, to submit to Congress details of the progress made in achieving the actions required under section 3406. (9) Administration With the consent of the appropriate agency head, the Advisory Board may use the facilities and services of any Federal agency. (10) Cooperation and assistance (A) Provision of information Upon request of the Panel Chair for information or assistance to facilitate carrying out this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall promptly provide such information, unless otherwise prohibited by law. (B) Space and assistance The Secretary of the Interior shall provide the Panel with appropriate and adequate office space, together with such equipment, office supplies, and communications facilities and services as may be necessary for the operation of the Panel, and shall provide necessary maintenance services for such offices and the equipment and facilities located therein. . 603. Water supply accounting (a) In general All Central Valley Project water, except Central Valley Project water released pursuant to U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000 used to implement an action undertaken for a fishery beneficial purpose that was not imposed by terms and conditions existing in licenses, permits, and other agreements pertaining to the Central Valley Project under applicable State or Federal law existing on October 30, 1992, shall be credited to the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed under this section; provided, that nothing herein shall affect the Secretary of the Interior’s duty to comply with any otherwise lawful requirement imposed on operations of the Central Valley Project under any provision of Federal or State law. (b) Reclamation policies and allocations Reclamation policies and allocations shall not be based upon any premise or assumption that Central Valley Project contract supplies are supplemental or secondary to any other contractor source of supply. 604. Implementation of water replacement plan (a) In general Not later than October 1, 2016, the Secretary of the Interior shall update and implement the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . The Secretary shall notify the Congress annually describing the progress of implementing the plan required by section 3408(j) of title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 . (b) Potential amendment If the plan required in subsection (a) has not increased the Central Valley Project yield by 800,000 acre-feet within 5 years after the enactment of this Act, then section 3406 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (title XXXIV of Public Law 102–575 ) is amended as follows: (1) In subsection (b)— (A) by amending paragraph (2)(C) to read: (C) If by March 15, 2021, and any year thereafter the quantity of Central Valley Project water forecasted to be made available to all water service or repayment contractors of the Central Valley Project is below 50 percent of the total quantity of water to be made available under said contracts, the quantity of Central Valley Project yield dedicated and managed for that year under this paragraph shall be reduced by 25 percent. . 605. Natural and artificially spawned species After the date of the enactment of this title, and regardless of the date of listing, the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce shall not distinguish between natural-spawned and hatchery-spawned or otherwise artificially propagated strains of a species in making any determination under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ) that relates to any anadromous or pelagic fish species that resides for all or a portion of its life in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta or rivers tributary thereto. 606. Transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested providers (a) Definitions For the purposes of this section, the following terms apply: (1) Interested local water and power providers The term interested local water and power providers includes the Calaveras County Water District, Calaveras Public Power Agency, Central San Joaquin Water Conservation District, Oakdale Irrigation District, Stockton East Water District, South San Joaquin Irrigation District, Tuolumne Utilities District, Tuolumne Public Power Agency, and Union Public Utilities District. (2) New melones unit, central valley project The term New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project means all Federal reclamation projects located within or diverting water from or to the watershed of the Stanislaus and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries as authorized by the Act of August 26, 1937 (50 Stat. 850), and all Acts amendatory or supplemental thereto, including the Act of October 23, 1962 (76 Stat. 1173). (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (b) Negotiations Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall enter into negotiations with interested local water and power providers for the transfer ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers within the State of California. (c) Transfer The Secretary shall transfer the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project in accordance with an agreement reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b). (d) Notification Not later than 360 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary shall notify the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate— (1) if an agreement is reached pursuant to negotiations conducted under subsection (b), the terms of that agreement; (2) of the status of formal discussions with interested local water and power providers for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (3) of all unresolved issues that are preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer of ownership, control, and operation of the New Melones Unit, Central Valley Project to interested local water and power providers; (4) on analysis and review of studies, reports, discussions, hearing transcripts, negotiations, and other information about past and present formal discussions that— (A) have a serious impact on the progress of the formal discussions; (B) explain or provide information about the issues that prevent progress or finalization of formal discussions; or (C) are, in whole or in part, preventing execution of an agreement for the transfer; and (5) of any actions the Secretary recommends that the United States should take to finalize an agreement for that transfer. 607. Basin studies (a) Authorized studies The Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to expand opportunities and expedite completion of assessments under section 9503(b) of the SECURE Water Act ( 42 U.S.C. 10363(b) ), with non-Federal partners, of individual sub-basins and watersheds within major Reclamation river basins; and shall ensure timely decision and expedited implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies developed through the special study process. (b) Funding (1) In general The non-Federal partners shall be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of the special studies. (2) Contributed Funds The Secretary may accept and use contributions of funds from the non-Federal partners to carry out activities under the special studies. 608. Operations of the Trinity River Division The Secretary of the Interior, in the operation of the Trinity River Division of the Central Valley Project, shall not make releases from Lewiston Dam in excess of the volume for each water-year type required by the U.S. Department of the Interior Record of Decision, Trinity River Mainstem Fishery Restoration Final Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report dated December 2000. (1) A maximum of 369,000 acre-feet in a Critically Dry year. (2) A maximum of 453,000 acre-feet in a Dry year. (3) A maximum of 647,000 acre-feet in a Normal year. (4) A maximum of 701,000 acre-feet in a Wet year. (5) A maximum of 815,000 acre-feet in an Extremely Wet year. 609. Amendment to purposes Section 3402 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4706) is amended— (1) in subsection (f), by striking the period at the end; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (g) to ensure that water dedicated to fish and wildlife purposes by this title is replaced and provided to Central Valley Project water contractors by December 31, 2018, at the lowest cost reasonably achievable; and (h) to facilitate and expedite water transfers in accordance with this Act. . 610. Amendment to definition Section 3403 of the Central Valley Project Improvement Act (106 Stat. 4707) is amended— (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) the term anadromous fish means those native stocks of salmon (including steelhead) and sturgeon that, as of October 30, 1992, were present in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and their tributaries and ascend those rivers and their tributaries to reproduce after maturing in San Francisco Bay or the Pacific Ocean; ; (2) in subsection (l), by striking and, ; (3) in subsection (m), by striking the period and inserting ; and ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (n) the term reasonable flow means water flows capable of being maintained taking into account competing consumptive uses of water and economic, environmental, and social factors. . VII Water Supply Permitting Act 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act . 702. Definitions In this title: (1) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (2) Bureau The term Bureau means the Bureau of Reclamation. (3) Qualifying projects The term qualifying projects means new surface water storage projects in the States covered under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) constructed on lands administered by the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture, exclusive of any easement, right-of-way, lease, or any private holding. (4) Cooperating agencies The term cooperating agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations, or a State agency subject to section 703(c). 703. Establishment of lead agency and cooperating agencies (a) Establishment of Lead Agency The Bureau of Reclamation is established as the lead agency for purposes of coordinating all reviews, analyses, opinions, statements, permits, licenses, or other approvals or decisions required under Federal law to construct qualifying projects. (b) Identification and Establishment of Cooperating Agencies The Commissioner of the Bureau shall— (1) identify, as early as practicable upon receipt of an application for a qualifying project, any Federal agency that may have jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, approval, or decision required for a qualifying project under applicable Federal laws and regulations; and (2) notify any such agency, within a reasonable timeframe, that the agency has been designated as a cooperating agency in regards to the qualifying project unless that agency responds to the Bureau in writing, within a timeframe set forth by the Bureau, notifying the Bureau that the agency— (A) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the qualifying project; (B) has no expertise or information relevant to the qualifying project or any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision associated therewith; or (C) does not intend to submit comments on the qualifying project or conduct any review of such a project or make any decision with respect to such project in a manner other than in cooperation with the Bureau. (c) State Authority A State in which a qualifying project is being considered may choose, consistent with State law— (1) to participate as a cooperating agency; and (2) to make subject to the processes of this title all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the qualifying project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, or opinion for the qualifying project; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or approval for the qualifying project. 704. Bureau responsibilities (a) In general The principal responsibilities of the Bureau under this title are to— (1) serve as the point of contact for applicants, State agencies, Indian tribes, and others regarding proposed qualifying projects; (2) coordinate preparation of unified environmental documentation that will serve as the basis for all Federal decisions necessary to authorize the use of Federal lands for qualifying projects; and (3) coordinate all Federal agency reviews necessary for project development and construction of qualifying projects. (b) Coordination process The Bureau shall have the following coordination responsibilities: (1) Pre-application coordination Notify cooperating agencies of proposed qualifying projects not later than 30 days after receipt of a proposal and facilitate a preapplication meeting for prospective applicants, relevant Federal and State agencies, and Indian tribes to— (A) explain applicable processes, data requirements, and applicant submissions necessary to complete the required Federal agency reviews within the timeframe established; and (B) establish the schedule for the qualifying project. (2) Consultation with cooperating agencies Consult with the cooperating agencies throughout the Federal agency review process, identify and obtain relevant data in a timely manner, and set necessary deadlines for cooperating agencies. (3) Schedule Work with the qualifying project applicant and cooperating agencies to establish a project schedule. In establishing the schedule, the Bureau shall consider, among other factors— (A) the responsibilities of cooperating agencies under applicable laws and regulations; (B) the resources available to the cooperating agencies and the non-Federal qualifying project sponsor, as applicable; (C) the overall size and complexity of the qualifying project; (D) the overall schedule for and cost of the qualifying project; and (E) the sensitivity of the natural and historic resources that may be affected by the qualifying project. (4) Environmental compliance Prepare a unified environmental review document for each qualifying project application, incorporating a single environmental record on which all cooperating agencies with authority to issue approvals for a given qualifying project shall base project approval decisions. Help ensure that cooperating agencies make necessary decisions, within their respective authorities, regarding Federal approvals in accordance with the following timelines: (A) Not later than one year after acceptance of a completed project application when an environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact is determined to be the appropriate level of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (B) Not later than one year and 30 days after the close of the public comment period for a draft environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ), when an environmental impact statement is required under the same. (5) Consolidated administrative record Maintain a consolidated administrative record of the information assembled and used by the cooperating agencies as the basis for agency decisions. (6) Project data records To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, ensure that all project data is submitted and maintained in generally accessible electronic format, compile, and where authorized under existing law, make available such project data to cooperating agencies, the qualifying project applicant, and to the public. (7) Project manager Appoint a project manager for each qualifying project. The project manager shall have authority to oversee the project and to facilitate the issuance of the relevant final authorizing documents, and shall be responsible for ensuring fulfillment of all Bureau responsibilities set forth in this section and all cooperating agency responsibilities under section 705. 705. Cooperating agency responsibilities (a) Adherence to Bureau Schedule Upon notification of an application for a qualifying project, all cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau a timeframe under which the cooperating agency reasonably considers it will be able to complete its authorizing responsibilities. The Bureau shall use the timeframe submitted under this subsection to establish the project schedule under section 704, and the cooperating agencies shall adhere to the project schedule established by the Bureau. (b) Environmental Record Cooperating agencies shall submit to the Bureau all environmental review material produced or compiled in the course of carrying out activities required under Federal law consistent with the project schedule established by the Bureau. (c) Data Submission To the extent practicable and consistent with Federal law, the cooperating agencies shall submit all relevant project data to the Bureau in a generally accessible electronic format subject to the project schedule set forth by the Bureau. 706. Funding to process permits (a) In general The Secretary, after public notice in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act ( 5 U.S.C. 553 ), may accept and expend funds contributed by a non-Federal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit of that entity related to a qualifying project. (b) Effect on permitting (1) In general In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the use of funds accepted under subsection (a) will not impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to permits, either substantively or procedurally. (2) Evaluation of permits In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall ensure that the evaluation of permits carried out using funds accepted under this section shall— (A) be reviewed by the Regional Director of the Bureau, or the Regional Director’s designee, of the region in which the qualifying project or activity is located; and (B) use the same procedures for decisions that would otherwise be required for the evaluation of permits for similar projects or activities not carried out using funds authorized under this section. (3) Impartial decisionmaking In carrying out this section, the Secretary and the cooperating agencies receiving funds under this section for qualifying projects shall ensure that the use of the funds accepted under this section for such projects shall not— (A) impact impartial decisionmaking with respect to the issuance of permits, either substantively or procedurally; or (B) diminish, modify, or otherwise affect the statutory or regulatory authorities of such agencies. (c) Limitation on use of funds None of the funds accepted under this section shall be used to carry out a review of the evaluation of permits required under subsection (b)(2)(A). (d) Public availability The Secretary shall ensure that all final permit decisions carried out using funds authorized under this section are made available to the public, including on the Internet. VIII Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining 801. Short title This title may be cited as the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act . 802. Definitions In this title: (1) Environmental impact statement The term environmental impact statement means the detailed statement of environmental impacts of a project required to be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (2) Environmental review process (A) In general The term environmental review process means the process of preparing an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) for a project study. (B) Inclusions The term environmental review process includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project study under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (3) Federal jurisdictional agency The term Federal jurisdictional agency means a Federal agency with jurisdiction delegated by law, regulation, order, or otherwise over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision required for a project study under applicable Federal laws (including regulations). (4) Federal lead agency The term Federal lead agency means the Bureau of Reclamation. (5) Project The term project means a surface water project, a project under the purview of title XVI of Public Law 102–575 , or a rural water supply project investigated under Public Law 109–451 to be carried out, funded or operated in whole or in party by the Secretary pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (6) Project sponsor The term project sponsor means a State, regional, or local authority or instrumentality or other qualifying entity, such as a water conservation district, irrigation district, water conservancy district, joint powers authority, mutual water company, canal company, rural water district or association, or any other entity that has the capacity to contract with the United States under Federal reclamation law. (7) Project study The term project study means a feasibility study for a project carried out pursuant to the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (8) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior. (9) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any surface water reservoir or impoundment that would be owned, funded or operated in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation or that would be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. 803. Acceleration of studies (a) In general To the extent practicable, a project study initiated by the Secretary, after the date of enactment of this Act, under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto, shall— (1) result in the completion of a final feasibility report not later than 3 years after the date of initiation; (2) have a maximum Federal cost of $3,000,000; and (3) ensure that personnel from the local project area, region, and headquarters levels of the Bureau of Reclamation concurrently conduct the review required under this section. (b) Extension If the Secretary determines that a project study described in subsection (a) will not be conducted in accordance with subsection (a), the Secretary, not later than 30 days after the date of making the determination, shall— (1) prepare an updated project study schedule and cost estimate; (2) notify the non-Federal project cost-sharing partner that the project study has been delayed; and (3) provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the reasons the requirements of subsection (a) are not attainable. (c) Exception (1) In general Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary may extend the timeline of a project study by a period not to exceed 3 years, if the Secretary determines that the project study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a). (2) Factors In making a determination that a study is too complex to comply with the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider— (A) the type, size, location, scope, and overall cost of the project; (B) whether the project will use any innovative design or construction techniques; (C) whether the project will require significant action by other Federal, State, or local agencies; (D) whether there is significant public dispute as to the nature or effects of the project; and (E) whether there is significant public dispute as to the economic or environmental costs or benefits of the project. (3) Notification Each time the Secretary makes a determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall provide written notice to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate as to the results of that determination, including an identification of the specific one or more factors used in making the determination that the project is complex. (4) Limitation The Secretary shall not extend the timeline for a project study for a period of more than 7 years, and any project study that is not completed before that date shall no longer be authorized. (d) Reviews Not later than 90 days after the date of the initiation of a project study described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall— (1) take all steps necessary to initiate the process for completing federally mandated reviews that the Secretary is required to complete as part of the study, including the environmental review process under section 805; (2) convene a meeting of all Federal, tribal, and State agencies identified under section 805(d) that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study; and (3) take all steps necessary to provide information that will enable required reviews and analyses related to the project to be conducted by other agencies in a thorough and timely manner. (e) Interim report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of the planning process under this section, including the number of participating projects; (2) a review of project delivery schedules, including a description of any delays on those studies initiated prior to the date of the enactment of this Act; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project. (f) Final report Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and make publicly available a report that describes— (1) the status of the implementation of this section, including a description of each project study subject to the requirements of this section; (2) the amount of time taken to complete each project study; and (3) any recommendations for additional authority necessary to support efforts to expedite the project study process, including an analysis of whether the limitation established by subsection (a)(2) needs to be adjusted to address the impacts of inflation. 804. Expedited completion of reports The Secretary shall— (1) expedite the completion of any ongoing project study initiated before the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) if the Secretary determines that the project is justified in a completed report, proceed directly to preconstruction planning, engineering, and design of the project in accordance with the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. 805. Project acceleration (a) Applicability (1) In general This section shall apply to— (A) each project study that is initiated after the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (B) the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other project studies initiated before the date of enactment of this Act and for which an environmental review process document is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (C) any project study for the development of a non-federally owned and operated surface water storage project for which the Secretary determines there is a demonstrable Federal interest and the project— (i) is located in a river basin where other Bureau of Reclamation water projects are located; (ii) will create additional water supplies that support Bureau of Reclamation water projects; or (iii) will become integrated into the operation of Bureau of Reclamation water projects. (2) Flexibility Any authority granted under this section may be exercised, and any requirement established under this section may be satisfied, for the conduct of an environmental review process for a project study, a class of project studies, or a program of project studies. (3) List of project studies (A) In general The Secretary shall annually prepare, and make publicly available, a list of all project studies that the Secretary has determined— (i) meets the standards described in paragraph (1); and (ii) does not have adequate funding to make substantial progress toward the completion of the project study. (B) Inclusions The Secretary shall include for each project study on the list under subparagraph (A) a description of the estimated amounts necessary to make substantial progress on the project study. (b) Project review process (1) In general The Secretary shall develop and implement a coordinated environmental review process for the development of project studies. (2) Coordinated review The coordinated environmental review process described in paragraph (1) shall require that any review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, or other approval or decision issued or made by a Federal, State, or local governmental agency or an Indian tribe for a project study described in subsection (b) be conducted, to the maximum extent practicable, concurrently with any other applicable governmental agency or Indian tribe. (3) Timing The coordinated environmental review process under this subsection shall be completed not later than the date on which the Secretary, in consultation and concurrence with the agencies identified under section 805(d), establishes with respect to the project study. (c) Lead agencies (1) Joint lead agencies (A) In general Subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and the requirements of section 1506.8 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), including the concurrence of the proposed joint lead agency, a project sponsor may serve as the joint lead agency. (B) Project sponsor as joint lead agency A project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity may— (i) with the concurrence of the Secretary, serve as a joint lead agency with the Federal lead agency for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) prepare any environmental review process document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if— (I) the Secretary provides guidance in the preparation process and independently evaluates that document; (II) the project sponsor complies with all requirements applicable to the Secretary under— (aa) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); (bb) any regulation implementing that Act; and (cc) any other applicable Federal law; and (III) the Secretary approves and adopts the document before the Secretary takes any subsequent action or makes any approval based on that document, regardless of whether the action or approval of the Secretary results in Federal funding. (2) Duties The Secretary shall ensure that— (A) the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection; and (B) any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor is appropriately supplemented to address any changes to the project the Secretary determines are necessary. (3) Adoption and use of documents Any environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection shall be adopted and used by any Federal agency making any determination related to the project study to the same extent that the Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency under— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) parts 1500 through 1508 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations). (4) Roles and responsibility of lead agency With respect to the environmental review process for any project study, the Federal lead agency shall have authority and responsibility— (A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper and within the authority of the Federal lead agency to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project study; and (B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other environmental review document for a project study required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law. (d) Participating and cooperating agencies (1) Identification of jurisdictional agencies With respect to carrying out the environmental review process for a project study, the Secretary shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, all Federal, State, and local government agencies and Indian tribes that may— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) be required by law to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) be required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (2) State authority If the environmental review process is being implemented by the Secretary for a project study within the boundaries of a State, the State, consistent with State law, may choose to participate in the process and to make subject to the process all State agencies that— (A) have jurisdiction over the project; (B) are required to conduct or issue a review, analysis, opinion, or statement for the project study; or (C) are required to make a determination on issuing a permit, license, or other approval or decision for the project study. (3) Invitation (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall invite, as early as practicable in the environmental review process, any agency identified under paragraph (1) to become a participating or cooperating agency, as applicable, in the environmental review process for the project study. (B) Deadline An invitation to participate issued under subparagraph (A) shall set a deadline by which a response to the invitation shall be submitted, which may be extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (4) Procedures Section 1501.6 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of the Bureau of Reclamation Project Streamlining Act) shall govern the identification and the participation of a cooperating agency. (5) Federal cooperating agencies Any Federal agency that is invited by the Federal lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project study shall be designated as a cooperating agency by the Federal lead agency unless the invited agency informs the Federal lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency— (A) (i) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project; (ii) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; or (iii) does not have adequate funds to participate in the project; and (B) does not intend to submit comments on the project. (6) Administration A participating or cooperating agency shall comply with this section and any schedule established under this section. (7) Effect of designation Designation as a participating or cooperating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating or cooperating agency— (A) supports a proposed project; or (B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project. (8) Concurrent reviews Each participating or cooperating agency shall— (A) carry out the obligations of that agency under other applicable law concurrently and in conjunction with the required environmental review process, unless doing so would prevent the participating or cooperating agency from conducting needed analysis or otherwise carrying out those obligations; and (B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner. (e) Non-Federal projects integrated into reclamation systems The Federal lead agency shall serve in that capacity for the entirety of all non-Federal projects that will be integrated into a larger system owned, operated or administered in whole or in part by the Bureau of Reclamation. (f) Non-Federal project If the Secretary determines that a project can be expedited by a non-Federal sponsor and that there is a demonstrable Federal interest in expediting that project, the Secretary shall take such actions as are necessary to advance such a project as a non-Federal project, including, but not limited to, entering into agreements with the non-Federal sponsor of such project to support the planning, design and permitting of such project as a non-Federal project. (g) Programmatic compliance (1) In general The Secretary shall issue guidance regarding the use of programmatic approaches to carry out the environmental review process that— (A) eliminates repetitive discussions of the same issues; (B) focuses on the actual issues ripe for analyses at each level of review; (C) establishes a formal process for coordinating with participating and cooperating agencies, including the creation of a list of all data that are needed to carry out an environmental review process; and (D) complies with— (i) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (ii) all other applicable laws. (2) Requirements In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall— (A) as the first step in drafting guidance under that paragraph, consult with relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public on the appropriate use and scope of the programmatic approaches; (B) emphasize the importance of collaboration among relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, and Indian tribes in undertaking programmatic reviews, especially with respect to including reviews with a broad geographical scope; (C) ensure that the programmatic reviews— (i) promote transparency, including of the analyses and data used in the environmental review process, the treatment of any deferred issues raised by Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, or the public, and the temporal and special scales to be used to analyze those issues; (ii) use accurate and timely information in the environmental review process, including— (I) criteria for determining the general duration of the usefulness of the review; and (II) the timeline for updating any out-of-date review; (iii) describe— (I) the relationship between programmatic analysis and future tiered analysis; and (II) the role of the public in the creation of future tiered analysis; and (iv) are available to other relevant Federal, State, and local governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and the public; (D) allow not fewer than 60 days of public notice and comment on any proposed guidance; and (E) address any comments received under subparagraph (D). (h) Coordinated reviews (1) Coordination plan (A) Establishment The Federal lead agency shall, after consultation with and with the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in, and comment on, the environmental review process for a project study or a category of project studies. (B) Schedule (i) In general As soon as practicable but not later than 45 days after the close of the public comment period on a draft environmental impact statement, the Federal lead agency, after consultation with and the concurrence of each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, shall establish, as part of the coordination plan established in subparagraph (A), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project study. (ii) Factors for consideration In establishing a schedule, the Secretary shall consider factors such as— (I) the responsibilities of participating and cooperating agencies under applicable laws; (II) the resources available to the project sponsor, joint lead agency, and other relevant Federal and State agencies, as applicable; (III) the overall size and complexity of the project; (IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and (V) the sensitivity of the natural and historical resources that could be affected by the project. (iii) Modifications The Secretary may— (I) lengthen a schedule established under clause (i) for good cause; and (II) shorten a schedule only with concurrence of the affected participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable. (iv) Dissemination A copy of a schedule established under clause (i) shall be— (I) provided to each participating and cooperating agency and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable; and (II) made available to the public. (2) Comment deadlines The Federal lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project study: (A) Draft environmental impact statements For comments by Federal and State agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of the draft environmental impact statement, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (B) Other environmental review processes For all other comment periods established by the Federal lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of not more than 30 days after the date on which the materials on which comment is requested are made available, unless— (i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the Federal lead agency, the project sponsor, or joint lead agency, as applicable, and all participating and cooperating agencies; or (ii) the deadline is extended by the Federal lead agency for good cause. (3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws In any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project study, including the issuance or denial of a permit or license, is required to be made by the date described in subsection (i)(5)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate— (A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period described in subsection (i)(5)(B), an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and (B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project study have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice. (4) Involvement of the public Nothing in this subsection reduces any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under applicable Federal law (including regulations). (5) Transparency reporting (A) Reporting requirements Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish and maintain an electronic database and, in coordination with other Federal and State agencies, issue reporting requirements to make publicly available the status and progress with respect to compliance with applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and any other Federal, State, or local approval or action required for a project study for which this section is applicable. (B) Project study transparency Consistent with the requirements established under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall make publicly available the status and progress of any Federal, State, or local decision, action, or approval required under applicable laws for each project study for which this section is applicable. (i) Issue identification and resolution (1) Cooperation The Federal lead agency, the cooperating agencies, and any participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or result in the denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (2) Federal lead agency responsibilities (A) In general The Federal lead agency shall make information available to the cooperating agencies and participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration. (B) Data sources The information under subparagraph (A) may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping. (3) Cooperating and participating agency responsibilities Based on information received from the Federal lead agency, cooperating and participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts of the project, including any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project study. (4) Accelerated issue resolution and elevation (A) In general On the request of a participating or cooperating agency or project sponsor, the Secretary shall convene an issue resolution meeting with the relevant participating and cooperating agencies and the project sponsor or joint lead agency, as applicable, to resolve issues that may— (i) delay completion of the environmental review process; or (ii) result in denial of any approval required for the project study under applicable laws. (B) Meeting date A meeting requested under this paragraph shall be held not later than 21 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the request for the meeting, unless the Secretary determines that there is good cause to extend that deadline. (C) Notification On receipt of a request for a meeting under this paragraph, the Secretary shall notify all relevant participating and cooperating agencies of the request, including the issue to be resolved and the date for the meeting. (D) Elevation of issue resolution If a resolution cannot be achieved within the 30-day period beginning on the date of a meeting under this paragraph and a determination is made by the Secretary that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the Secretary shall forward the dispute to the heads of the relevant agencies for resolution. (E) Convention by secretary The Secretary may convene an issue resolution meeting under this paragraph at any time, at the discretion of the Secretary, regardless of whether a meeting is requested under subparagraph (A). (5) Financial penalty provisions (A) In general A Federal jurisdictional agency shall complete any required approval or decision for the environmental review process on an expeditious basis using the shortest existing applicable process. (B) Failure to decide (i) In general (I) Transfer of funds If a Federal jurisdictional agency fails to render a decision required under any Federal law relating to a project study that requires the preparation of an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment, including the issuance or denial of a permit, license, statement, opinion, or other approval by the date described in clause (ii), the amount of funds made available to support the office of the head of the Federal jurisdictional agency shall be reduced by an amount of funding equal to the amount specified in item (aa) or (bb) of subclause (II), and those funds shall be made available to the division of the Federal jurisdictional agency charged with rendering the decision by not later than 1 day after the applicable date under clause (ii), and once each week thereafter until a final decision is rendered, subject to subparagraph (C). (II) Amount to be transferred The amount referred to in subclause (I) is— (aa) $20,000 for any project study requiring the preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement; or (bb) $10,000 for any project study requiring any type of review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) other than an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. (ii) Description of date The date referred to in clause (i) is the later of— (I) the date that is 180 days after the date on which an application for the permit, license, or approval is complete; and (II) the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Federal lead agency issues a decision on the project under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ). (C) Limitations (i) In general No transfer of funds under subparagraph (B) relating to an individual project study shall exceed, in any fiscal year, an amount equal to 1 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office. (ii) Failure to decide The total amount transferred in a fiscal year as a result of a failure by an agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline shall not exceed an amount equal to 5 percent of the funds made available for the applicable agency office for that fiscal year. (iii) Aggregate Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, the aggregate amount of financial penalties assessed against each applicable agency office under this Act and any other Federal law as a result of a failure of the agency to make a decision by an applicable deadline for environmental review, including the total amount transferred under this paragraph, shall not exceed an amount equal to 9.5 percent of the funds made available for the agency office for that fiscal year. (D) Notification of transfers Not later than 10 days after the last date in a fiscal year on which funds of the Federal jurisdictional agency may be transferred under subparagraph (B)(5) with respect to an individual decision, the agency shall submit to the appropriate committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate written notification that includes a description of— (i) the decision; (ii) the project study involved; (iii) the amount of each transfer under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; (iv) the total amount of all transfers under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year relating to the decision; and (v) the total amount of all transfers of the agency under subparagraph (B) in that fiscal year. (E) No fault of agency (i) In general A transfer of funds under this paragraph shall not be made if the applicable agency described in subparagraph (A) notifies, with a supporting explanation, the Federal lead agency, cooperating agencies, and project sponsor, as applicable, that— (I) the agency has not received necessary information or approvals from another entity in a manner that affects the ability of the agency to meet any requirements under Federal, State, or local law; (II) significant new information, including from public comments, or circumstances, including a major modification to an aspect of the project, requires additional analysis for the agency to make a decision on the project application; or (III) the agency lacks the financial resources to complete the review under the scheduled timeframe, including a description of the number of full-time employees required to complete the review, the amount of funding required to complete the review, and a justification as to why not enough funding is available to complete the review by the deadline. (ii) Lack of financial resources If the agency provides notice under clause (i)(III), the Inspector General of the agency shall— (I) conduct a financial audit to review the notice; and (II) not later than 90 days after the date on which the review described in subclause (I) is completed, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate the results of the audit conducted under subclause (I). (F) Limitation The Federal agency from which funds are transferred pursuant to this paragraph shall not reprogram funds to the office of the head of the agency, or equivalent office, to reimburse that office for the loss of the funds. (G) Effect of paragraph Nothing in this paragraph affects or limits the application of, or obligation to comply with, any Federal, State, local, or tribal law. (j) Memorandum of agreements for early coordination (1) Sense of congress It is the sense of Congress that— (A) the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process should cooperate with each other, State and local agencies, and Indian tribes on environmental review and Bureau of Reclamation project delivery activities at the earliest practicable time to avoid delays and duplication of effort later in the process, prevent potential conflicts, and ensure that planning and project development decisions reflect environmental values; and (B) the cooperation referred to in subparagraph (A) should include the development of policies and the designation of staff that advise planning agencies and project sponsors of studies or other information foreseeably required for later Federal action and early consultation with appropriate State and local agencies and Indian tribes. (2) Technical assistance If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Secretary and other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, shall, to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, as determined by the agencies, provide technical assistance to the State or project sponsor in carrying out early coordination activities. (3) Memorandum of agency agreement If requested at any time by a State or project sponsor, the Federal lead agency, in consultation with other Federal agencies with relevant jurisdiction in the environmental review process, may establish memoranda of agreement with the project sponsor, Indian tribes, State and local governments, and other appropriate entities to carry out the early coordination activities, including providing technical assistance in identifying potential impacts and mitigation issues in an integrated fashion. (k) Limitations Nothing in this section preempts or interferes with— (1) any obligation to comply with the provisions of any Federal law, including— (A) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ); and (B) any other Federal environmental law; (2) the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State; (3) any requirement for seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or (4) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, duty, or authority that a Federal, State, or local governmental agency, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provision of law applicable to projects. (l) Timing of claims (1) Timing (A) In general Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or other approval issued by a Federal agency for a project study shall be barred unless the claim is filed not later than 3 years after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or other approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law that allows judicial review. (B) Applicability Nothing in this subsection creates a right to judicial review or places any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or other approval. (2) New information (A) In general The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (including successor regulations). (B) Separate action The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document, if required under this section, shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of the action shall be 3 years after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing the action relating to such supplemental environmental impact statement or other environmental document. (m) Categorical exclusions (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) survey the use by the Bureau of Reclamation of categorical exclusions in projects since 2005; (B) publish a review of the survey that includes a description of— (i) the types of actions that were categorically excluded or could be the basis for developing a new categorical exclusion; and (ii) any requests previously received by the Secretary for new categorical exclusions; and (C) solicit requests from other Federal agencies and project sponsors for new categorical exclusions. (2) New categorical exclusions Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, if the Secretary has identified a category of activities that merit establishing a categorical exclusion that did not exist on the day before the date of enactment this Act based on the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall publish a notice of proposed rulemaking to propose that new categorical exclusion, to the extent that the categorical exclusion meets the criteria for a categorical exclusion under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulation). (n) Review of project acceleration reforms (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall— (A) assess the reforms carried out under this section; and (B) not later than 5 years and not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate a report that describes the results of the assessment. (2) Contents The reports under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of impacts of the reforms carried out under this section on— (A) project delivery; (B) compliance with environmental laws; and (C) the environmental impact of projects. (o) Performance measurement The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress made toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process. (p) Categorical exclusions in emergencies For the repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation of a Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project that is in operation or under construction when damaged by an event or incident that results in a declaration by the President of a major disaster or emergency pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. ), the Secretary shall treat such repair, reconstruction, or rehabilitation activity as a class of action categorically excluded from the requirements relating to environmental assessments or environmental impact statements under section 1508.4 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), if the repair or reconstruction activity is— (1) in the same location with the same capacity, dimensions, and design as the original Bureau of Reclamation surface water storage project as before the declaration described in this section; and (2) commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of a declaration described in this subsection. 806. Annual report to Congress (a) In general Not later than February 1 of each year, the Secretary shall develop and submit to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate an annual report, to be entitled Report to Congress on Future Water Project Development , that identifies the following: (1) Project reports Each project report that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (2) Proposed project studies Any proposed project study submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b) that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A). (3) Proposed modifications Any proposed modification to an authorized water project or project study that meets the criteria established in subsection (c)(1)(A) that— (A) is submitted to the Secretary by a non-Federal interest pursuant to subsection (b); or (B) is identified by the Secretary for authorization. (4) Expedited completion of report and determinations Any project study that was expedited and any Secretarial determinations under section 804. (b) Requests for proposals (1) Publication Not later than May 1 of each year, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice requesting proposals from non-Federal interests for proposed project studies and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies to be included in the annual report. (2) Deadline for requests The Secretary shall include in each notice required by this subsection a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in paragraph (1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of the notice in the Federal Register in order for the proposals to be considered for inclusion in the annual report. (3) Notification On the date of publication of each notice required by this subsection, the Secretary shall— (A) make the notice publicly available, including on the Internet; and (B) provide written notification of the publication to the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate. (c) Contents (1) Project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications (A) Criteria for inclusion in report The Secretary shall include in the annual report only those project reports, proposed project studies, and proposed modifications to authorized projects and project studies that— (i) are related to the missions and authorities of the Bureau of Reclamation; (ii) require specific congressional authorization, including by an Act of Congress; (iii) have not been congressionally authorized; (iv) have not been included in any previous annual report; and (v) if authorized, could be carried out by the Bureau of Reclamation. (B) Description of benefits (i) Description The Secretary shall describe in the annual report, to the extent applicable and practicable, for each proposed project study and proposed modification to an authorized water resources development project or project study included in the annual report, the benefits, as described in clause (ii), of each such study or proposed modification. (ii) Benefits The benefits (or expected benefits, in the case of a proposed project study) described in this clause are benefits to— (I) the protection of human life and property; (II) improvement to domestic irrigated water and power supplies; (III) the national economy; (IV) the environment; or (V) the national security interests of the United States. (C) Identification of other factors The Secretary shall identify in the annual report, to the extent practicable— (i) for each proposed project study included in the annual report, the non-Federal interest that submitted the proposed project study pursuant to subsection (b); and (ii) for each proposed project study and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report, whether the non-Federal interest has demonstrated— (I) that local support exists for the proposed project study or proposed modification to an authorized project or project study (including the surface water storage development project that is the subject of the proposed feasibility study or the proposed modification to an authorized project study); and (II) the financial ability to provide the required non-Federal cost share. (2) Transparency The Secretary shall include in the annual report, for each project report, proposed project study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included under paragraph (1)(A)— (A) the name of the associated non-Federal interest, including the name of any non-Federal interest that has contributed, or is expected to contribute, a non-Federal share of the cost of— (i) the project report; (ii) the proposed project study; (iii) the authorized project study for which the modification is proposed; or (iv) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the water report; (bb) the proposed project study; or (cc) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed; or (II) the proposed modification to a project; (B) a letter or statement of support for the water report, proposed project study, or proposed modification to a project or project study from each associated non-Federal interest; (C) the purpose of the feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, or proposed modification to a project or project study; (D) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the Federal, non-Federal, and total costs of— (i) the proposed modification to an authorized project study; and (ii) construction of— (I) the project that is the subject of— (aa) the project report; or (bb) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the change in costs resulting from such modification; or (II) the proposed modification to an authorized project; and (E) an estimate, to the extent practicable, of the monetary and nonmonetary benefits of— (i) the project that is the subject of— (I) the project report; or (II) the authorized project study for which a modification is proposed, with respect to the benefits of such modification; or (ii) the proposed modification to an authorized project. (3) Certification The Secretary shall include in the annual report a certification stating that each feasibility report, proposed feasibility study, and proposed modification to a project or project study included in the annual report meets the criteria established in paragraph (1)(A). (4) Appendix The Secretary shall include in the annual report an appendix listing the proposals submitted under subsection (b) that were not included in the annual report under paragraph (1)(A) and a description of why the Secretary determined that those proposals did not meet the criteria for inclusion under such paragraph. (d) Special rule for initial annual report Notwithstanding any other deadlines required by this section, the Secretary shall— (1) not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, publish in the Federal Register a notice required by subsection (b)(1); and (2) include in such notice a requirement that non-Federal interests submit to the Secretary any proposals described in subsection (b)(1) by not later than 120 days after the date of publication of such notice in the Federal Register in order for such proposals to be considered for inclusion in the first annual report developed by the Secretary under this section. (e) Publication Upon submission of an annual report to Congress, the Secretary shall make the annual report publicly available, including through publication on the Internet. (f) Definition In this section, the term project report means a final feasibility report developed under the Reclamation Act of 1902 (32 Stat. 388), and all Acts amendatory thereof or supplementary thereto. IX Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement 901. Short title This title may be cited as the Accelerated Revenue, Repayment, and Surface Water Storage Enhancement Act . 902. Prepayment of certain repayment contracts between the United States and contractors of federally developed water supplies (a) Conversion and prepayment of contracts (1) Conversion Upon request of the contractor, the Secretary of the Interior shall convert any water service contract in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and between the United States and a water users’ association to allow for prepayment of the repayment contract pursuant to paragraph (2) under mutually agreeable terms and conditions. The manner of conversion under this paragraph shall be as follows: (A) Water service contracts that were entered into under section 9(e) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1196), to be converted under this section shall be converted to repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (B) Water service contracts that were entered under subsection (c)(2) of section 9 of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1194), to be converted under this section shall be converted to a contract under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195). (2) Prepayment All repayment contracts under section 9(d) of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(A) shall— (A) provide for the repayment, either in lump sum or by accelerated prepayment, of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific irrigation rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payment not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor, or if made in approximately equal installments, no later than 3 years after the effective date of the repayment contract, such amount to be discounted by ½ the Treasury rate. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days following receipt of request of the contractor; (B) require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law; (C) provide that power revenues will not be available to aid in repayment of construction costs allocated to irrigation under the contract; and (D) continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(d) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (3) Contract requirements The following shall apply with regard to all repayment contracts under subsection (c)(1) of section 9 of that Act (53 Stat. 1195) in effect on the date of enactment of this Act at the request of the contractor, and all contracts converted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B): (A) Provide for the repayment in lump sum of the remaining construction costs identified in water project specific municipal and industrial rate repayment schedules, as adjusted to reflect payments not reflected in such schedule, and properly assignable for ultimate return by the contractor. An estimate of the remaining construction costs, as adjusted, shall be provided by the Secretary to the contractor no later than 90 days after receipt of request of contractor. (B) The contract shall require that construction costs or other capitalized costs incurred after the effective date of the contract or not reflected in the rate schedule referenced in subparagraph (A), and properly assignable to such contractor, shall be repaid in not more than 5 years after notification of the allocation if such amount is a result of a collective annual allocation of capital costs to the contractors exercising contract conversation under this subsection of less than $5,000,000. If such amount is $5,000,000 or greater, such cost shall be repaid as provided by applicable reclamation law. (C) Continue so long as the contractor pays applicable charges, consistent with section 9(c)(1) of the Act of August 4, 1939 (53 Stat. 1195), and applicable law. (4) Conditions All contracts entered into pursuant to paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) shall— (A) not be adjusted on the basis of the type of prepayment financing used by the water users’ association; (B) conform to any other agreements, such as applicable settlement agreements and new constructed appurtenant facilities; and (C) not modify other water service, repayment, exchange and transfer contractual rights between the water users’ association, and the Bureau of Reclamation, or any rights, obligations, or relationships of the water users’ association and their landowners as provided under State law. (b) Accounting The amounts paid pursuant to subsection (a) shall be subject to adjustment following a final cost allocation by the Secretary of the Interior. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are greater than what has been paid by the contractor, the contractor shall be obligated to pay the remaining allocated costs. The term of such additional repayment contract shall be not less than one year and not more than 10 years, however, mutually agreeable provisions regarding the rate of repayment of such amount may be developed by the parties. In the event that the final cost allocation indicates that the costs properly assignable to the contractor are less than what the contractor has paid, the Secretary shall credit such overpayment as an offset against any outstanding or future obligation of the contractor. (c) Applicability of certain provisions (1) Effect of existing law Upon a contractor’s compliance with and discharge of the obligation of repayment of the construction costs pursuant to a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A), subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) shall apply to affected lands. (2) Effect of other obligations The obligation of a contractor to repay construction costs or other capitalized costs described in subsection (a)(2)(B), (a)(3)(B), or (b) shall not affect a contractor’s status as having repaid all of the construction costs assignable to the contractor or the applicability of subsections (a) and (b) of section 213 of the Reclamation Reform Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 1269) once the amount required to be paid by the contractor under the repayment contract entered into pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A) have been paid. (d) Effect on existing law not altered Implementation of the provisions of this title shall not alter— (1) the repayment obligation of any water service or repayment contractor receiving water from the same water project, or shift any costs that would otherwise have been properly assignable to the water users’ association identified in subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(3) absent this section, including operation and maintenance costs, construction costs, or other capitalized costs incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act, or to other contractors; and (2) specific requirements for the disposition of amounts received as repayments by the Secretary under the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ). (e) Surface water storage enhancement program (1) In general Except as provided in subsection (d)(2), three years following the date of enactment of this Act, 50 percent of receipts generated from prepayment of contracts under this section beyond amounts necessary to cover the amount of receipts forgone from scheduled payments under current law for the 10-year period following the date of enactment of this Act shall be directed to the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account under paragraph (2). (2) Surface storage account The Secretary shall allocate amounts collected under paragraph (1) into the Reclamation Surface Storage Account to fund the construction of surface water storage. The Secretary may also enter into cooperative agreements with water users’ associations for the construction of surface water storage and amounts within the Surface Storage Account may be used to fund such construction. Surface water storage projects that are otherwise not federally authorized shall not be considered Federal facilities as a result of any amounts allocated from the Surface Storage Account for part or all of such facilities. (3) Repayment Amounts used for surface water storage construction from the Account shall be fully reimbursed to the Account consistent with the requirements under Federal reclamation law (the law (the Act of June 17, 1902 (32 Stat. 388, chapter 1093))), and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act ( 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) except that all funds reimbursed shall be deposited in the Account established under paragraph (2). (4) Availability of amounts Amounts deposited in the Account under this subsection shall— (A) be made available in accordance with this section, subject to appropriation; and (B) be in addition to amounts appropriated for such purposes under any other provision of law. (5) Purposes of surface water storage Construction of surface water storage under this section shall be made for the following purposes: (A) Increased municipal and industrial water supply. (B) Agricultural floodwater, erosion, and sedimentation reduction. (C) Agricultural drainage improvements. (D) Agricultural irrigation. (E) Increased recreation opportunities. (F) Reduced adverse impacts to fish and wildlife from water storage or diversion projects within watersheds associated with water storage projects funded under this section. (G) Any other purposes consistent with reclamation laws or other Federal law. (f) Definitions For the purposes of this title, the following definitions apply: (1) Account The term Account means the Reclamation Surface Water Storage Account established under subsection (e)(2). (2) Construction The term construction means the designing, materials engineering and testing, surveying, and building of surface water storage including additions to existing surface water storage and construction of new surface water storage facilities, exclusive of any Federal statutory or regulatory obligations relating to any permit, review, approval, or other such requirement. (3) Surface water storage The term surface water storage means any federally owned facility under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Reclamation or any non-Federal facility used for the surface storage and supply of water resources. (4) Treasury rate The term Treasury rate means the 20-year Constant Maturity Treasury (CMT) rate published by the United States Department of the Treasury existing on the effective date of the contract. (5) Water users’ association The term water users’ association means— (A) an entity organized and recognized under State laws that is eligible to enter into contracts with reclamation to receive contract water for delivery to and users of the water and to pay applicable charges; and (B) includes a variety of entities with different names and differing functions, such as associations, conservatory district, irrigation district, municipality, and water project contract unit. X Safety of Dams 1001. Authorization of additional project benefits The Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 is amended— (1) in section 3, by striking Construction and inserting Except as provided in section 5B, construction ; and (2) by inserting after section 5A ( 43 U.S.C. 509 ) the following: 5B. Authorization of additional project benefits Notwithstanding section 3, if the Secretary determines that additional project benefits, including but not limited to additional conservation storage capacity, are feasible and not inconsistent with the purposes of this Act, the Secretary is authorized to develop additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project in conjunction with the Secretary’s activities under section 2 of this Act and subject to the conditions described in the feasibility study, provided— (1) the Secretary determines that developing additional project benefits through the construction of new or supplementary works on a project will promote more efficient management of water and water-related facilities; (2) the feasibility study pertaining to additional project benefits has been authorized pursuant to section 8 of the Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965 ( 16 U.S.C. 4601–18 ); and (3) the costs associated with developing the additional project benefits are agreed to in writing between the Secretary and project proponents and shall be allocated to the authorized purposes of the structure and repaid consistent with all provisions of Federal Reclamation law (the Act of June 17, 1902, 43 U.S.C. 371 et seq. ) and Acts supplemental to and amendatory of that Act. . XI Water Rights Protection 1101. Short title This title may be cited as the Water Rights Protection Act . 1102. Definition of water right In this title, the term water right means any surface or groundwater right filed, permitted, certified, confirmed, decreed, adjudicated, or otherwise recognized by a judicial proceeding or by the State in which the user acquires possession of the water or puts the water to beneficial use, including water rights for federally recognized Indian tribes. 1103. Treatment of water rights The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not— (1) condition or withhold, in whole or in part, the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on— (A) limitation or encumbrance of any water right, or the transfer of any water right (including joint and sole ownership), directly or indirectly to the United States or any other designee; or (B) any other impairment of any water right, in whole or in part, granted or otherwise recognized under State law, by Federal or State adjudication, decree, or other judgment, or pursuant to any interstate water compact; (2) require any water user (including any federally recognized Indian tribe) to apply for or acquire a water right in the name of the United States under State law as a condition of the issuance, renewal, amendment, or extension of any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement; (3) assert jurisdiction over groundwater withdrawals or impacts on groundwater resources, unless jurisdiction is asserted, and any regulatory or policy actions taken pursuant to such assertion are, consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, applicable State laws (including regulations) and policies governing the protection and use of groundwater resources; or (4) infringe on the rights and obligations of a State in evaluating, allocating, and adjudicating the waters of the State originating on or under, or flowing from, land owned or managed by the Federal Government. 1104. Recognition of State authority (a) In general In carrying out section 1103, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall— (1) recognize the longstanding authority of the States relating to evaluating, protecting, allocating, regulating, and adjudicating groundwater by any means, including a rulemaking, permitting, directive, water court adjudication, resource management planning, regional authority, or other policy; and (2) coordinate with the States in the adoption and implementation by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture of any rulemaking, policy, directive, management plan, or other similar Federal action so as to ensure that such actions are consistent with, and impose no greater restrictions or regulatory requirements than, State groundwater laws and programs. (b) Effect on state water rights In carrying out this title, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall not take any action that adversely affects— (1) any water rights granted by a State; (2) the authority of a State in adjudicating water rights; (3) definitions established by a State with respect to the term beneficial use , priority of water rights , or terms of use ; (4) terms and conditions of groundwater withdrawal, guidance and reporting procedures, and conservation and source protection measures established by a State; (5) the use of groundwater in accordance with State law; or (6) any other rights and obligations of a State established under State law. 1105. Effect of title (a) Effect on existing authority Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing legally recognized authority of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to issue, grant, or condition any permit, approval, license, lease, allotment, easement, right-of-way, or other land use or occupancy agreement on Federal land subject to the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture, respectively. (b) Effect on reclamation contracts Nothing in this title interferes with Bureau of Reclamation contracts entered into pursuant to the reclamation laws. (c) Effect on endangered species act Nothing in this title affects the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ). (d) Effect on federal reserved water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any existing or claimed reserved water rights of the Federal Government on land administered by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture. (e) Effect on federal power act Nothing in this title limits or expands authorities under sections 4(e), 10(j), or 18 of the Federal Power Act ( 16 U.S.C. 797(e) , 803(j), 811). (f) Effect on Indian water rights Nothing in this title limits or expands any water right or treaty right of any federally recognized Indian tribe.

July 13, 2015 Reported from the Committee on Natural Resources with an amendment July 13, 2015 The Committee on Agriculture discharged; committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed