For Immediate Release                                                   Contact: Amanda Molk, 202-225-5256
September 10, 2003  

Napolitano Supports More Water Recycling and Desalination Projects

Ranking Member Grace Napolitano (D-CA38) and Chairman Ken Calvert (R-CA) convened a hearing today to discuss four bills which would authorize federal funding for San Bernadino and Orange Counties in California and Brownsville, Texas.  The legislation would allow these areas to begin or expand water recycling and desalination projects.  “I have always been a strong supporter of water recycling and desalination projects, and I have been very outspoken about the necessity of increasing funding for these activities,” stated Napolitano.  The hearing was extraordinarily well attended and many Members expressed their interest in the legislation that was discussed.

H.R. 2991 would allow the Bureau of Reclamation to assist Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) and Rancho Cucamonga County Water District (RCCWD) with the planning, design and construction of water recycling projects.  “I am proud to support my neighbor, Congressman Dreier, as an original cosponsor of H.R. 2991,” noted the Congresswoman.  H.R. 142 allow the Bureau of Reclamation to help IEUA construct regional brine lines and brackish desalination projects.  The federal cost share for these programs would be 25%.  “I am committed to ensuring a stable and secure water supply in southern California.  Water recycling and desalination projects are a critical part of that goal and will help solve costly water problems,” commented Napolitano.

H.R. 1156 would increase the current cost ceiling on Orange County Water District’s (OCWD) Groundwater Replenishment System from $20 million to $80 million, or 18% of the total cost. 

“Water recycling and desalination are a critical part of our future water security.  They are predominantly funded by local sources and in most cases heavily supported by local business communities.  The federal government merely provides seed money and serves as a facilitator for these projects.  I do not understand why the Bush Administration has failed to give its full support or adequate funding for water recycling and desalination projects, and I hope that trend will change.  As the Ranking Member of the House Water and Power Subcommittee, I look forward to the passage of these four important pieces of legislation,” concluded Napolitano.

Representative Grace F. Napolitano, 38th District of California
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