FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025
Contact:
Madison Hardy
Janessa Tolman
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) issues the following statement condemning a ruling by a U.S. District Court on Wednesday impacting hydropower operations on the Columbia River system.
“Once again, an activist judge is trying to dismantle the infrastructure Idahoans rely on by legislating from the bench,” said Risch. “Congress authorized these dams, and only Congress has the authority to determine how they are managed. This decision disregards the essential role the lower Snake River dams play in our communities, and I will continue fighting to protect these vital resources.”
The Columbia River System provides multiple benefits to Idaho and the region, including clean hydropower, economic stimulus, risk management, and crop irrigation.
Risch has been a staunch defender of the lower Snake River dams and introduced the Northwest Energy Security Act to protect the operation of the Federal Columbia River Power System.
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
