American Water Stewardship Act
Summary
The American Water Stewardship Act reauthorizes several EPA geographic programs aimed at water restoration and quality monitoring. It extends funding for initiatives like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Long Island Sound, Columbia River Basin, and San Francisco Bay restoration programs through 2031. The act also broadens the scope of the National Estuary Program and enhances coastal recreation water quality monitoring.
Expected Effects
This act will ensure continued federal support for critical water restoration projects across the US. It will also improve the ability of states and local governments to identify and address sources of water contamination. The act restricts federal funds from going to entities with ties to foreign countries of concern.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for vital water restoration projects.
- Enhanced monitoring of coastal recreation water quality.
- Expanded scope of the National Estuary Program.
- Improved identification of contamination sources.
- Increased collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays in implementing the Mississippi Sound component of the National Estuary Program due to funding restrictions in 2026 and 2027.
- The 75% cap on federal funding for San Francisco Bay restoration projects may require increased non-federal contributions.
- Restrictions on funding to entities with ties to foreign countries of concern could limit access to specialized expertise or technologies.
- The act relies on future appropriations, which are not guaranteed.
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative overhead.
Constitutional Alignment
The American Water Stewardship Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect and improve water resources for the benefit of the public. The act's provisions for funding and regulating water quality fall under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as waterways often cross state lines. The requirement for a report from the Comptroller General aligns with Congress's oversight responsibilities.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).