Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2025

Summary

The Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2025 amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. It reauthorizes the pilot program for alternative water source projects and promotes the use of intelligent water infrastructure technology. The bill increases funding for grants and extends the program's authorization through 2028.

Expected Effects

This act will likely lead to modernization of water infrastructure through the adoption of new technologies. It also aims to improve water quality monitoring and management. The increased funding could spur more projects and broader adoption of innovative solutions.

Potential Benefits

  • Improved water quality through real-time monitoring and management.
  • Increased efficiency and reduced costs in wastewater treatment and stormwater management.
  • Enhanced water supply reliability and management, especially in disadvantaged communities.
  • Promotion of innovative and alternative water supply projects.
  • Greater resilience of water infrastructure to weather-related impacts.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The act prohibits the use of grant funds for planning, feasibility studies, operation, or maintenance (except for intelligent water infrastructure technology), which may limit the scope of projects.
  • The focus on technology may exclude smaller communities lacking the resources to implement such systems.
  • The reliance on real-time data acquisition may raise privacy concerns if not properly managed.
  • Potential for increased costs associated with the adoption of new technologies.
  • The act does not address broader issues of water scarcity or overall water resource management.

Constitutional Alignment

The Act aligns with the Constitution's provision for promoting the general welfare (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes waterways that cross state lines (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). The Act's focus on water quality and infrastructure also relates to the government's responsibility to ensure domestic tranquility and provide for the common defense by securing essential 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).