Rep. Chuck Fleischmann said a new water bill leaves Chickamauga Lock well positioned for 2016 funding.
Rep. Fleischmann, vice chairman of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, on Friday voted for H.R. 2028, the Fiscal Year 2016 Energy & Water Appropriations Act. After passage,
He said, “This is an excellent bill that prioritizes important spending across the country while exercising strong oversight to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. When it comes to national security, this bill is well-rounded. It will enhance the security and stability of our nuclear stockpile and will continue the important work done in Oak Ridge.
“Our nation’s vital waterways are also well funded in this bill. I am proud to see the Army Corps of Engineers receive funding for important projects like the Chickamauga Lock. Also included is language that should ensure the Chickamauga Lock retains its current place in the construction priority order, leaving it well positioned to receive funding in Fiscal Year 2016. Overall, this is a responsible bill, and I was glad to join with my House colleagues in working toward its passage.”
H.R. 2028, Fiscal Year 2016 Energy & Water Appropriations Act, includes $108 million more than the President’s budget for Inland Waterways projects, requires the Army Corps of Engineers to maintain its current prioritizations, and ensures that the Corps spends all the money it is allocated. The bill also includes full funding for the Uranium Processing Facility.