Aquatic ecosystem restoration

In this section, the term “eligible entity” means— Subject to the requirements of this section and paragraph (2), on request of any eligible entity the Secretary may negotiate and enter into an agreement on behalf of the United States to fund the design, study, and construction of an aquatic ecosystem restoration and protection project in a Reclamation State if the Secretary determines that the project is likely to improve the health of fisheries, wildlife or aquatic habitat, including through habitat restoration and improved fish passage via the removal or bypass of barriers to fish passage. With respect to an aquatic ecosystem restoration and protection project under this section that removes a dam or modifies a dam in a manner that reduces storage or diversion capacity, the Secretary may only negotiate and enter into an agreement to fund— the construction of such project if the Secretary— The Secretary shall accept and consider public comment prior to initiating design, study or development of a project under this section. Construction of a project under this section shall be a voluntary project initiated only after— the Secretary determines the proposed project— is consistent with the responsibilities of the Secretary— the Secretary has complied with all applicable environmental laws, including— There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available until expended. Nothing in this section supersedes or limits any existing authority provided, or responsibility conferred, by any provision of law. Nothing in this section preempts or affects any— The Secretary shall comply with applicable State water laws in carrying out this section. When funding projects under this section, the Secretary shall prioritize projects that—