Downing BILL to Extend FORT PECK Rural Water System Authorization Passes House Natural Resources Committee

May 14, 2026 Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing’s bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028, allowing critical water infrastructure construction projects to continue moving forward across northeastern Montana. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was originally enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves tribal and non-tribal communities across the region. H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to support construction on essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028. “Reliable access to clean water is critical for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities across northeastern Montana,” said Congressman Downing . “I’m proud my bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this important infrastructure project moving forward. This legislation will help strengthen rural communities, support long-term water security, and invest in Montana’s future.” Read the bill HERE . Background: The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was created to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems. H.R. 7250 extends authorization for the project for an additional two years to ensure continued construction and infrastructure development throughout the region. ### Issues : Congress Natural Resources