H.R.338 - Every Drop Counts Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 338, the "Every Drop Counts Act," aims to amend the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to enhance surface water and groundwater storage. The bill modifies the eligibility criteria for water storage projects, increasing the potential capacity and extending the authorization period for grants. It emphasizes that the amendments should not infringe upon existing state or federal water laws, interstate compacts, or treaty obligations.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be to expand the scope and duration of water storage projects eligible for federal funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This could lead to increased water storage capacity and improved water management, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. The bill explicitly protects existing water rights and legal frameworks.
Potential Benefits
- Increased water storage capacity, enhancing water security.
- Potential for improved groundwater management and aquifer recharge.
- Support for water conveyance projects, improving water distribution.
- Extended grant authorization period, providing more time for project completion.
- Explicit protection of existing water rights and state water laws.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased federal spending on water storage projects.
- Possible conflicts with existing water rights if projects are not carefully managed.
- Environmental impacts associated with large-scale water storage projects (e.g., habitat disruption).
- Risk of projects being prioritized based on political considerations rather than scientific need.
- Potential for cost overruns and delays in project implementation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to improve water resource management, which can be considered a matter of public welfare. The bill's emphasis on not superseding state water law respects the balance of power between the federal government and the states, aligning with principles of federalism. There is no apparent conflict with any specific constitutional provision.
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).