Maloney Advocates for National Dam Safety Act at First Hearing Over the Water Resources Development Act

Washington, D.C. -  Representative Sean Patrick Maloney today advocated for inclusion of his legislation, the National Dam Safety Act, into the Water Resources Development Act . Last week, Maloney introduced legislation to give communities the support they need to ensure dams have the highest safety standards. With thousands of dams across the country posing a serious risk to communities and families, The Dam Safety Act of 2013 addresses the growing safety concerns caused by our nation’s aging dam infrastructure by reauthorizing the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) which failed to be reauthorized last Congress.  

“One of the important aspects of the Water Resources Development Act is giving our communities the proper resources to conduct safety inspections and create emergency action plans. With over 800 dams in the Hudson Valley including nearly 100 high hazard dams, this is a classic ‘stitch in time saves nine’ situation where we are partnering with communities to invest in public safety,” said Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney.

The Water Resources Development Act of 2013 (WRDA) contains important proposals to improve navigation, coastal management and infrastructure financing. The NDSP provides vital support to assist states like New York in developing Emergency Action Plans (EAPs), implementing existing dam safety programs, assisting with the purchase of equipment, and conducting dam inspections. This important program will help save lives and strengthen America’s dam infrastructure.  

Gregory E. DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), said “As stewards of our nation’s infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers applauds Congressman Maloney for bringing attention to the nation’s dams and for being the champion to reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program.”  

“Dams are integral to our nation’s infrastructure. Dams provide important benefits to America but in many cases would put people and property at risk should they fail. We all have a role to play in creating a future where all dams are safe. A national commitment to improving dam safety today will save lives and property tomorrow,” said Lori Spragens, executive director of ASDSO.