S. 4096: To amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to modify provisions relating to rural decentralized water systems grants.

This bill proposes to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, specifically targeting the grant program for rural decentralized water systems. The key components of the bill include:

Modification of Grant Provisions

The bill aims to enhance financial support for nonprofit organizations that assist individuals in rural areas with their water and wastewater systems. Here are the main modifications:

• Grants to Nonprofits: The Secretary of Agriculture could provide grants to private nonprofit organizations. These organizations will use the funds to provide subgrants and loans to individuals for:
• Constructing, refurbishing, and servicing individual household water well systems.
• Constructing, refurbishing, and servicing household decentralized wastewater systems.
• Income Eligibility for Beneficiaries: The new provisions expand eligibility:
• Individuals from households with incomes below 60% of the median nonmetropolitan household income can receive subgrants.
• Individuals from households with incomes between 60% and 100% of the median nonmetropolitan household income can receive loans.
• Increase in Subgrant Limits: The maximum amount that can be granted for eligible water systems will increase from $15,000 to $20,000.
• Performance Warranties: The bill allows additional funding within subgrants specifically for the cost of performance warranties lasting at least five years for decentralized wastewater systems.
• Extended Grant Program Duration: The expiration date for the program is extended from 2023 to 2031, allowing more time for its implementation and benefits.

Overall, this legislation aims to improve access to essential water and wastewater services in rural communities, particularly focusing on low- and moderate-income households.

Relevant Companies

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