33 U.S.C. § 2347a — Determination of project completion

(a) In general The Secretary must notify the applicable non-Federal interest when construction of a water resources project or a functional portion of the project is completed so the non-Federal interest may begin responsibilities, as applicable, for operating and maintaining the project. (b) Non-Federal interest appeal of determination (1) In general Not later than 7 days after receiving a notification under subsection (a) , the non-Federal interest may appeal the completion determination of the Secretary in writing with a detailed explanation of the basis for questioning the completeness of the project or functional portion of the project. (2) Independent review (A) In general On notification that a non-Federal interest has submitted an appeal under paragraph (1) , the Secretary must contract with 1 or more independent, non-Federal experts to evaluate whether the applicable water resources project or functional portion of the project is complete. (B) Timeline An independent review carried out under subparagraph (A) must be completed by 180 days after the date on which the Secretary receives an appeal from a non-Federal interest under paragraph (1) .