FLOWS Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (21 Jul 2026): Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
What this bill does
The FLOWS Act, introduced in the House of Representatives, aims to make changes related to hydropower project operations and licensing. Specifically, it would clarify rules for project owners regarding the maintenance and repair of existing hydropower structures, distinguishing between routine tasks and substantial alterations that require prior approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The bill also proposes a new licensing pathway for "micro hydrokinetic energy projects," defined as facilities with a capacity of up to 5 megawatts that harness energy from moving water like waves, tides, or free-flowing rivers without impounding water.
This legislation would affect entities that operate hydropower projects by potentially streamlining the process for minor repairs and adjustments. It also introduces a specific licensing framework for smaller hydrokinetic energy developers, aiming for an expedited process with defined timelines for application review and decision-making by FERC. The bill also mandates FERC to issue new regulations within specific timeframes to implement these changes, including considerations for environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act for low-impact projects.
As of its introduction on July 21, 2026, H.R. 9806 has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The next step in the legislative process would be for this committee to consider the bill, which could involve hearings, amendments, and a vote before it could potentially be moved to the full House for consideration.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
21 Jul 2026
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 9806 do?
- The FLOWS Act, introduced in the House of Representatives, aims to make changes related to hydropower project operations and licensing. Specifically, it would clarify rules for project owners regarding the maintenance and repair of existing hydropower structures, distinguishing between routine tasks and substantial alterations that require prior approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The bill also proposes a new licensing pathway for "micro hydrokinetic energy projects," defined as facilities with a capacity of up to 5 megawatts that harness energy from moving water like waves, tides, or free-flowing rivers without impounding water. This legislation would affect entities that operate hydropower projects by potentially streamlining the process for minor repairs and adjustments. It also introduces a specific licensing framework for smaller hydrokinetic energy developers, aiming for an expedited process with defined timelines for application review and decision-making by FERC. The bill also mandates FERC to issue new regulations within specific timeframes to implement these changes, including considerations for environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act for low-impact projects. As of its introduction on July 21, 2026, H.R. 9806 has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The next step in the legislative process would be for this committee to consider the bill, which could involve hearings, amendments, and a vote before it could potentially be moved to the full House for consideration.
- Has H.R. 9806 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 9806. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 9806?
- H.R. 9806 was sponsored by Rep. Langworthy, Nicholas A. [R-NY-23] (R-NY), with 1 cosponsor.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 9806?
- Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. (21 Jul 2026).
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