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, setting the amount equal to 35% of the conduit's cost.
Expected Effects
This act will change the repayment structure for the Arkansas Valley Conduit. It allows for extended repayment periods up to 75 years with simple interest for communities demonstrating financial hardship. The contracting parties will assume responsibility for the conduit's operation and maintenance.
Potential Benefits
- Provides reliable water supplies to communities and households that currently lack them.
- Offers extended repayment terms (up to 75 years) with simple interest, easing the financial burden on struggling communities.
- Ensures local control over the operation and maintenance of the conduit.
- Could stimulate economic activity in the region by ensuring water availability.
- Clarifies the financial obligations and responsibilities of all parties involved.
Potential Disadvantages
- The 35% cost share may still be a significant burden for some communities, even with extended repayment terms.
- The determination of "financial hardship" by the Secretary could be subject to political influence.
- Potential for increased costs to contracting parties for operation, maintenance and replacement.
- The act does not address potential environmental impacts of the conduit.
- Reliance on excess capacity or exchange contracts may not be sustainable in the long term.
Constitutional Alignment
This act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Preamble of the US Constitution) by aiming to provide essential water resources to communities. Congress has the power to legislate on matters pertaining to infrastructure and resource management, as implied by Article I, Section 8. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).