hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Study feasibility of a water supply project from Missouri River.
Sen. John Thune (R-SD) and Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD)
Introduced in Senate, referred to Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
This bill orders the Interior Department to study whether it's feasible to build a pipeline or system to bring Missouri River water to the Western Dakota Regional Water System, which serves municipal, rural, and industrial users. Senators Thune and Rounds introduced it. It's now in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, meaning it hasn't had a vote yet.
Introduced Jan 29, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
The bill only funds a study, not construction. The study costs up to $10 million, with the feds covering no more than half. The rest comes from the local water system. If the study says it's feasible, Congress could later decide to build a project, but that's years away. Your water bill might see a small impact if local costs rise.
Supporters Say
Supports say it's a smart first step to secure reliable water for western South Dakota communities facing drought and growth.
Critics Say
Critics worry the study is a costly prelude to a huge federal water project that may not be needed or environmentally sound.
Supporters, including the sponsors, argue the region needs a backup water source beyond dwindling groundwater. Critics may point to the $10 million price tag for just a study and note that Missouri River water rights are contentious among states. No major opposition has been recorded yet.