H.R. 5834: Critical Water Supplies for Resilient Communities Act

This bill, titled the Critical Water Supplies for Resilient Communities Act, seeks to amend existing legislation related to water supply projects in the United States. Specifically, it modifies the Federal Water Pollution Control Act's program that authorizes grants for alternative water source projects. Here are the key changes proposed by the bill:

Modification of Existing Program

• The program previously known as a "Pilot Program" will now be referred to simply as "Grants".

Definition of Critical Water Supply Needs

• The bill clarifies that "critical water supply needs" refer to water supply requirements that have already been identified or are anticipated in the future. These needs must be documented in plans or assessments that involve public engagement.
• It specifies two areas of focus for these needs:
  • Comprehensive local, statewide, or regional water supply.
  • Local or regional drought resiliency.

Authority and Reporting Requirements

• The bill redefines the authority responsible for overseeing the grant program, moving away from the pilot program concept.
• It introduces a requirement for annual reports to be submitted by the Administrator of the relevant authority. These reports must detail each alternative water source project funded in the previous fiscal year, including how those projects address the identified critical water supply needs.

Timeline Adjustments

• The deadline for certain provisions included in the legislation has been extended from 2026 to 2031.

The overall aim of this legislation is to enhance the management and funding of alternative water source projects that address both current and future water supply challenges, particularly in regions vulnerable to drought.

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