Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act
Summary
The Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act aims to extend the authorization for a grant program focused on water recycling and reuse. Specifically, it amends Section 40905(k) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to extend the program's authorization from 5 years to 10 years. This extension signals continued federal support for large-scale water recycling projects.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Lee of Nevada and Mr. Ciscomani and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The reauthorization does not appear to change the scope or nature of the grant program itself, only its duration.
By extending the authorization, the bill seeks to provide long-term stability and encourage further investment in water recycling infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to ensure the continuation of a grant program designed to support large-scale water recycling and reuse projects for an additional five years. This would allow existing projects to continue receiving funding and potentially encourage new projects to apply for grants.
Extending the authorization period provides greater certainty to state and local governments, as well as private entities, planning and implementing water recycling initiatives. This can lead to increased investment and innovation in water management practices.
Ultimately, the bill aims to enhance water security and sustainability by promoting the use of recycled water as a valuable resource.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continued funding for existing water recycling projects.
- Encourages new large-scale water recycling initiatives.
- Promotes water conservation and sustainable water management practices.
- Provides greater certainty for long-term water resource planning.
- Potentially reduces reliance on traditional water sources.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill itself doesn't allocate new funding, it only extends the authorization, so the actual impact depends on future appropriations.
- There may be concerns about the environmental impacts of large-scale water recycling projects if not properly managed.
- The benefits may be geographically concentrated in areas with water scarcity issues.
- The bill does not address potential cost increases associated with water recycling technologies.
- There is a risk that extended funding could lead to inefficiencies or a lack of innovation if not properly overseen.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation. Water recycling and reuse can contribute to the general welfare by ensuring a sustainable water supply.
Furthermore, the bill falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), as water resources often cross state lines, and their management can have implications for interstate commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, the extent of federal power over water resources is a complex legal issue, and some may argue that the bill infringes upon states' rights to manage their own water resources.
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).