Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4394

Introduced
6/30/23  

Caption

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

Impact

This legislation is set to have a significant impact on water rights and usage within California, particularly for agricultural, municipal, and industrial users. By stipulating provisions against involuntary reductions in water supply and detailing allocations for existing contracts within the Sacramento River Watershed, the bill seeks to ensure that water delivery remains consistent, even during periods of drought. Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for revising biological opinions provided by environmental agencies, which could affect how water resources are managed in relation to endangered species and other ecological considerations.

Summary

House Bill 4394, known as the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, aims to allocate funding for various programs and projects associated with water resources, specifically focusing on the Central Valley Project (CVP) and the State Water Project (SWP) in California. The bill emphasizes the importance of water supply reliability and aims to prevent involuntary reductions in allocations to contractors while considering environmental protections. Additionally, it mandates the completion of specific water supply programs and projects aimed at addressing anticipated shortages in the state, thus reinforcing infrastructure development and operational efficiencies in water management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4394 is largely supportive among agricultural groups and municipal contractors who argue that the legislation is essential for maintaining water supply stability in the face of prolonged drought conditions. However, there are concerns from environmental advocates who fear that the prioritization of water deliveries may come at the expense of ecological protections and the health of local ecosystems. The overarching debate emphasizes the tension between resource management for human consumption and the conservation of natural habitats.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential long-term effects on environmental regulations tied to the operations of the CVP and SWP. Critics argue that the provisions allowing for adjustments in water management practices in light of drought could lead to further ecological degradation if not carefully monitored. Furthermore, the negotiations underpinning water rights and their operational dynamics add complexity to the implementation of the bill, emphasizing the challenges faced in balancing human needs and environmental sustainability.

Companion Bills

US HB215

Related Working to Advance Tangible and Effective Reforms for California Act or the WATER for California Act This bill addresses the operation of the Central Valley Project (CVP), a federal water project in California owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, and the California State Water Project (SWP), which is operated jointly with the CVP. Specifically, the bill requires that Reclamation operate the CVP and SWP pursuant to a specified alternative to a proposed action in a final environmental impact statement and 2019 agency published Biological Opinions (BiOps). The bill also requires Reclamation and the Department of Commerce to submit a justification to Congress that meets certain requirements prior to requesting or completing a reinitiation of consultation that will result in new BiOps. This bill also requires Reclamation to allocate water to existing agricultural water service contractors within the CVP's Sacramento River Watershed based on the water year type (e.g., dry, wet). These allocations must not affect the United States' ability or obligations to deliver water under other designated contracts. Further, the bill repeals certain eligibility requirements for water infrastructure construction funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to make the Shasta Dam and Reservoir Enlargement Project in California eligible for funding. The bill also requires that Reclamation funds made available but not used for this project in previous appropriations years be made available to the project. Finally, the bill reauthorizes Reclamation's support for the construction or expansion of water storage projects.

US HB186

Related Water Supply Permitting Coordination Act This bill makes the Bureau of Reclamation the lead agency for the purpose of coordinating all permitting and related activities required to construct certain new surface-water storage projects. Specifically, Reclamation must identify, notify, and coordinate all Federal agencies that may have jurisdiction over a review, analysis, opinion, statement, permit, license, approval, or decision for a qualifying project. A state where a project is being considered may also choose to participate as a cooperating agency. Reclamation's coordination responsibilities include (1) preparing a unified environmental review document, and (2) maintaining a consolidated administrative record and project data records. Additionally, Reclamation is authorized to accept and expend funds contributed by a nonfederal public entity to expedite the evaluation of a permit for such a project.

US HB4366

Related Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 Counting Veterans' Cancer Act of 2023

US SB2443

Related Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024

US HR756

Related Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4394) making appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4364) making appropriations for the Legislative Branch for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes.

US HB216

Related bill My Child, My Choice Act of 2023 This bill prohibits an elementary school from receiving federal education funds unless a teacher requests written parental consent prior to teaching a lesson specifically related to gender identity, sexual orientation, or transgender studies. In particular, the bill requires a teacher to request written consent from the parent of each student enrolled in the class prior to teaching the lesson. If a parent does not submit written consent to the lesson, then the school must provide the student with an alternative period of learning or study hall. Further, the teacher may not teach the lesson if the principal does not receive written consent from the parents of at least 50% of the students enrolled in the class.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.