Congress redirects $18M to drought-proof groundwater in water-stressed regions
H.R. 337 — To provide technical and financial assistance for groundwater recharge, aquifer storage, and water source substitution projects. · Filed by Jim Costa (D-CA) · 6 cosponsors · Introduced Jan 13, 2025 · Referred to committee
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What it does
This bill redirects $3 million per year from 2026–2031 (totaling $18 million) from unobligated balances in an existing water infrastructure program to fund groundwater recharge, aquifer storage, and water source substitution projects. It amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to allow the Secretary of the Interior to reallocate unused funds toward these specific water-management initiatives.
Why we flagged it
The bill is a straightforward technical amendment that redirects existing appropriated funds within a water infrastructure program toward specific water-management objectives (groundwater recharge, aquifer storage, source substitution). It is not a new appropriation but a reallocation of unobligated balances.
What the text implies
- The bill depends on the existence of unobligated balances in § 40901; if those balances are fully committed or depleted, the $3M annual transfer may not materialize, making the bill's practical effect contingent on implementation of the underlying IIJA program.
- Groundwater recharge and aquifer storage projects typically require state and local coordination; the bill does not specify matching-fund requirements or state participation, so effectiveness depends on state willingness to partner with federal funding.
The full analysis lists 3 implications of this text.
Who stands to gain
water utilities and districts undertaking groundwater recharge projects; agricultural regions dependent on groundwater; municipalities in water-stressed areas