If enacted, HB 873 establishes a structured funding mechanism known as the Water Quality and Environmental Innovation Fund, which will ensure that financial resources are dedicated to projects aimed at mitigating water quality challenges. This fund will be supported by appropriations from certain federal accounts alongside incoming fees from the EPA's compliance programs. Importantly, funds can only be used until September 30, 2028, urging a sense of urgency for entities to present viable projects in this timeframe.
Summary
House Bill 873, titled the 'Water Quality and Environmental Innovation Act,' aims to empower the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to foster innovative technological solutions addressing threats to water quality. The bill authorizes the EPA to award grants and contracts for projects utilizing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and environmental DNA. The overarching intent is to improve water quality through the promotion of market-based innovations and collaborative efforts between the federal government and relevant stakeholders, including educational institutions and non-profits.
Conclusion
Overall, HB 873 positions the EPA as a facilitator of innovation in environmental management through financial backing and new technological applications. The act signifies a legislative commitment to enhance national water quality standards while also potentially setting the stage for future discussions regarding the balance between federal assistance and local governance in environmental issues.
Contention
The bill reflects a growing acknowledgment of the complexity surrounding water quality issues, from contaminated runoff to infrastructure inadequacies. While proponents highlight the need for federal support in innovative private and public sector projects, critics could argue about the effectiveness of centralized federal solutions versus localized, community-driven efforts. There could also be potential debates regarding the oversight and accountability of fund allocation, especially concerning environmental outcomes and technological efficacy.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Environmental Protection Agency, Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Program Account for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Related Agencies, Executive Office of the President: Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality for fiscal year 2024.
Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023
A bill to accelerate the development, demonstration, and deployment of new technologies and innovative solutions to address the environmental cleanup mission of the Department of Energy, and for other purposes.