Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act
Summary
The "Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act" amends Public Law 87-590, modifying repayment terms for the Arkansas Valley Conduit in Colorado. It aims to provide reliable domestic water supplies to communities lacking them. The act adjusts the repayment contract, specifying funding sources and terms for financial hardship cases.
Expected Effects
The act will change the repayment structure for the Arkansas Valley Conduit. This includes specifying that 35% of the conduit cost will be covered by certain funding, with the remaining balance potentially repaid over 75 years with simple interest in cases of financial hardship. It also mandates the contracting parties to assume responsibility for the conduit's operation and maintenance.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures reliable domestic water supplies for communities in Colorado.
- Provides a structured repayment plan, addressing financial hardship.
- Encourages local responsibility for the conduit's upkeep through operation and maintenance provisions.
- Utilizes revenue from excess capacity or exchange contracts to offset costs.
- Potentially stimulates local economic activity through improved water access.
Potential Disadvantages
- The 75-year repayment period could create a long-term financial burden.
- The "demonstration of financial hardship" clause may be subject to interpretation and potential disputes.
- The reliance on "excess capacity or exchange contracts" introduces some financial uncertainty.
- The act may not address all water-related issues in the Arkansas Valley.
- Potential administrative overhead in managing the repayment contracts and hardship assessments.
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) by aiming to provide essential water services to communities. Congress's power to legislate regarding infrastructure projects that serve the public good is generally accepted. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States.
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).