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Rio Grande Water Security Act
9/7/2023, 4:30 PM
Summary of Bill HR 7793
The bill aims to improve water infrastructure in the region, including increasing water storage capacity, enhancing water conservation efforts, and promoting sustainable water management practices. It also seeks to address water quality issues in the Rio Grande, such as pollution and contamination.
Additionally, the Rio Grande Water Security Act includes provisions to support local communities and farmers who rely on the river for their livelihoods. This includes funding for irrigation projects, drought relief programs, and assistance for water rights holders. Overall, the bill is designed to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for the Rio Grande region, while also protecting the environment and supporting the local economy. It has received bipartisan support in Congress and is seen as a crucial step towards addressing water security challenges in the area.
Congressional Summary of HR 7793
Rio Grande Water Security Act
This bill requires the Department of the Interior to develop and implement an integrated water resources management plan (i.e., the Basin Plan) for the Rio Grande Basin and reauthorizes an irrigation infrastructure grant program for Rio Grande Pueblos tribes.
Specifically, Interior must convene a working group of designated federal agencies to collaborate with the Basin States (Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas), Indian tribes, local governments, irrigation districts, and other partners to develop and implement a plan for improving the basin's water security and quality, river and watershed health, and resilience to drought. The plan must include (1) project recommendations for updating reservoir operations, increasing water conservation, and improving infrastructure; (2) a list of potential changes that may be needed to existing federal authorities to implement the plan; and (3) a 30-year implementation time line.
After the plan is submitted to Congress, relevant agencies may implement recommended projects. Agencies may also waive cost-sharing requirements for projects that demonstrate significant public benefits.
The bill also reauthorizes an irrigation infrastructure grant program that permits the Bureau of Reclamation to provide grants and enter into agreements with the Rio Grande Pueblos tribes for repairing and replacing Pueblo irrigation infrastructure to (1) increase water use efficiency and agricultural productivity, (2) conserve water, and (3) enhance water management.
