Congresswoman Napolitano Introduces Water Recycling Bill

(Washington D.C.)- Representative Grace F. Napolitano (D-Norwalk), who serves as Ranking Member of the House Water and Power Subcommittee joined U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) in introducing H.R. 5768, Reclaiming the Nation's Water Act, in the U.S. House of Representatives.  The bill aims to promote and encourage local water recycling, reclamation and desalination projects in Southern California and throughout the Western United States.  

"Projects commonly referred to as 'Title 16' water recycling are a critical part of our country’s future water security.  This helps provide solutions to some of the most challenging local water needs faced today and will prepare us for those we will confront tomorrow.  With water recycling assistance, our cities can help prepare for the drought cycles in the West,” explained the Congresswoman. 

H.R. 5768 builds on the 1992 “Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study and Facilities Act,” which has provided funding to help communities build water recycling projects and conserve our precious water.   The Napolitano-Feinstein bill clarifies the procedures for the review of new water recycling projects and will make it easier for communities to qualify for federal financial help. 

The legislation sets forth guidelines for projects that are key components in the San Gabriel Valley's overall plan to protect its water supply, as California continues to meet a mandated reduction in the amount of water taken from the Colorado River.  It also provides that any future projects will be predominantly funded by local sources, while the federal government provides seed money and serves as a facilitator for these projects. 

"This bill encourages the federal government to play a more aggressive role in ensuring that the 17 western states including California will have a viable source of water for years to come by cleaning and utilizing our existing resources," noted Congresswoman Napolitano.  "We are very grateful for Senator Feinstein's continued leadership in the U.S. Senate on behalf of water reclamation, recycling and desalination projects." 

The Congresswoman urges her colleagues to support the measure, and looks forward to the passage of her bill by the full Resources Committee and the House of Representatives.

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