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WATER for California
12/21/2024, 9:23 AM
Summary of Bill HR 215
One of the key provisions of the WATER for California Act is the authorization of $500 million in federal funding for the construction of new water storage facilities, such as reservoirs and dams. These projects are intended to increase the state's water supply and improve water management in times of drought.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for funding research and development of new water conservation technologies, as well as grants for local water agencies to implement water efficiency programs. This is aimed at promoting sustainable water use and reducing waste in the state. Furthermore, the WATER for California Act also includes measures to improve water quality by funding projects to address pollution and contamination in water sources. This includes funding for wastewater treatment facilities and efforts to reduce agricultural runoff. Overall, the goal of the WATER for California Act is to address the pressing water issues facing the state and ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for future generations. The bill is currently being debated in Congress, with supporters arguing that it is necessary to invest in water infrastructure to ensure the state's long-term water security.
Congressional Summary of HR 215
Working to Advance Tangible and Effective Reforms for California Act or the WATER for California Act
This bill addresses the operation of the Central Valley Project (CVP), a federal water project in California owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, and the California State Water Project (SWP), which is operated jointly with the CVP.
Specifically, the bill requires that Reclamation operate the CVP and SWP pursuant to a specified alternative to a proposed action in a final environmental impact statement and 2019 agency published Biological Opinions (BiOps). The bill also requires Reclamation and the Department of Commerce to submit a justification to Congress that meets certain requirements prior to requesting or completing a reinitiation of consultation that will result in new BiOps.
This bill also requires Reclamation to allocate water to existing agricultural water service contractors within the CVP's Sacramento River Watershed based on the water year type (e.g., dry, wet). These allocations must not affect the United States' ability or obligations to deliver water under other designated contracts.
Further, the bill repeals certain eligibility requirements for water infrastructure construction funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to make the Shasta Dam and Reservoir Enlargement Project in California eligible for funding. The bill also requires that Reclamation funds made available but not used for this project in previous appropriations years be made available to the project.
Finally, the bill reauthorizes Reclamation's support for the construction or expansion of water storage projects.
