New House Bill Supports Rural Technical Assistance
The Grassroots Rural and Small Community Water Assistance Act (HR 654) calls for a reauthorization of SDWA §1442(e) that provides for $15 million in annual funding for technical assistance targeted toward small and rural water systems. The measure, introduced on February 13 by Rep. Gregg Harper (R-MS), amends the language to provide funding through 2019. It also states that the amounts may be used for training in implementation of source water protection plans as well as water security enhancements in addition to traditional onsite training and circuit rider programs. The measure has been referred to the House Energy & Commerce Committee for consideration.
