H.R. 9705 mandates that the Secretary of the Army create guidelines for reviewing applications related to changes in the use or occupation of specific hydropower projects. This includes alterations to existing projects as well as requests for temporary or permanent use of these facilities.
H.R. 9705 was introduced in the 119th Congress by Maggie Goodlander (Democrat) and is currently listed as “Introduced”. It is classified under the Water Resources Development policy area, one of 43 bills in that area we track this Congress.
Maggie Goodlander is the sponsor of 3 bills in our database this Congress, so H.R. 9705 is part of a broader legislative agenda rather than a one-off proposal.
Our conflict-of-interest analysis rates H.R. 9705 2/10 (low risk), higher than 76% of analyzed bills; the average in Water Resources Development is 2/10.
Supporters of H.R. 9705 argue that the bill will streamline the process for managing hydropower projects, potentially leading to increased efficiency and innovation in the energy sector. They believe that clear guidance from the Secretary of the Army will help facilitate the transition to more sustainable energy practices.
Critics of H.R. 9705 express concerns that the bill may lead to insufficient oversight of hydropower projects, potentially harming environmental protections. They worry that expedited reviews could prioritize development over ecological considerations, risking damage to local ecosystems and communities.
The analysis of H.R. 9705, sponsored by Maggie Goodlander, indicates a low risk of conflicts of interest based on the sponsor's top donor industries. The primary donor industry is Health Professionals, contributing a substantial $120 million, followed by Retired individuals at $37.5 million. However, there are no direct overlaps between these donor industries and the subject matter of the bill, which focuses on hydropower project applications. This lack of overlap suggests that the financial interests of the top donors are unlikely to influence the legislative intent or outcomes of this bill. Voters should be aware that while significant contributions exist, they do not appear to create a direct conflict regarding this specific legislation.
Top industries funding Maggie Goodlander, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
What does H.R. 9705 do?
H.R. 9705 mandates that the Secretary of the Army create guidelines for reviewing applications related to changes in the use or occupation of specific hydropower projects. This includes alterations to existing projects as well as requests for temporary or permanent use of these facilities.
Has H.R. 9705 received a floor vote?
No roll-call vote on H.R. 9705 is recorded in our database yet. Its current status is “Introduced”.
Does H.R. 9705 have a conflict of interest?
Our conflict-of-interest analysis rates H.R. 9705 2/10 (low risk), higher than 76% of analyzed bills; the average in Water Resources Development is 2/10. This score reflects overlap between the sponsor’s campaign funding, lobbying activity, and the industries the bill affects. It is a transparency indicator, not an accusation.
What is the status of H.R. 9705?
H.R. 9705 is currently “Introduced” as of our last update on July 17, 2026.
Who sponsored H.R. 9705?
H.R. 9705 was sponsored by Maggie Goodlander (Democrat).
