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119-s-3518119th CongressWALLET

FLOWS Act

Sponsored By: Senator Murkowski, Lisa [R-AK]

In Committee

Summary

This bill would create a faster licensing route for very small "micro hydrokinetic" projects and would reduce routine approval requirements for existing hydropower works. It aims to speed deployment of non‑impoundment turbines while carving out specific dam safety authority for regulators.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Easier routine maintenance for hydropower

If enacted, the bill would let licensed hydropower owners make nonsubstantial alterations that follow previously approved plans and do routine maintenance, repairs, replacements, and seasonal or temporary operational adjustments without separate Commission approval. These changes apply when work is within FERC-approved plans or needed because of circumstances beyond the licensee's control. The Commission would still be able to require notice and to enforce dam-safety rules and license terms, and informal dam-safety consultations would remain available. The aim is to cut some approval delays and paperwork for operators.

Faster licenses for tiny hydro projects

If enacted, the bill would create a new, faster licensing track for "micro hydrokinetic" projects that are 5 megawatts or smaller and do not impound water. Applicants would file a notice of intent, then a full application within 1 year, and the Commission would have 1 year after filing to make a final decision. Licenses could run 10 to 20 years. The bill would also require the Commission to write rules within 180 days, allow limited NEPA categorical exclusions for low-disturbance work, and to report to Congress on environmental and economic impacts no later than 5 years after enactment or after 50 projects have run for 1 year, whichever is earlier.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Murkowski, Lisa [R-AK]

AK • R

Cosponsors

  • Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME]

    ME • I

    Sponsored 12/17/2025

  • Sen. Daines, Steve [R-MT]

    MT • R

    Sponsored 5/20/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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