New Security Threat Evaluation Bill Introduced

Rep. Scott Peters (D-CA) has introduced the Secure and Resilient Water Systems Act (HR 1579) to “require drinking water systems to assess and address their vulnerabilities to climate change, source water degradation, and intentional acts to ensure security and resiliency.”  Although the text of the bill is not yet available on congress.gov, ASDWA has learned that the measure amends the SDWA to require that, within two years of enactment, water systems must assess their threats from drought, industrial pollution, and terrorist attacks.  The bill authorizes grants of $50 million/year until FY 21 for water systems and their communities to address the identified threats.  Funding priority will be given to those applicants determined to be at the greatest risk.  The applicant pool must also include those proposals that use water efficiency, water reuse, and/or water recycling as part of the solution.
Peters was joined by Reps. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Paul Tonko (D-NY), the Ranking Minority Members for the full House Energy & Commerce Committee and the Environment Subcommittee, respectively, as cosponsors for the legislation.