H.R. 9640 (IH) – Border Water Quality Restoration and Protection Act
Summary:
H.R. 9640 is a bill that aims to address water quality issues and improve the health of the San Diego-Tijuana border region. It proposes several measures to:
- Establish a binational water quality management program: Create a framework for the United States and Mexico to collaborate on water quality management in the border region.
- Provide financial assistance: Authorize grants and loans to support infrastructure projects and programs that reduce water pollution and improve water quality.
- Promote sustainable water practices: Encourage the adoption of water conservation measures, wastewater treatment technologies, and stormwater management practices.
- Monitor and report on water quality: Establish monitoring systems to track water quality parameters and provide data for decision-making.
- Support cross-border coordination: Facilitate collaboration and information sharing between stakeholders on both sides of the border.
Key Provisions:
- Binational Water Quality Management Program: Establish a bi-annual meeting between the United States and Mexico to develop and implement a joint water quality management plan.
- EPA Support: Designate the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the lead agency for the United States in implementing the program.
- Financial Assistance: Authorize $150 million for grants and $100 million for loans to support water infrastructure and improvement projects.
- Monitoring and Research: Require the EPA to establish water quality monitoring systems and conduct research on water pollution sources and mitigation strategies.
- Reporting: Direct the EPA to submit annual reports to Congress on the progress and effectiveness of the program.
Goals:
- Improve water quality in the San Diego-Tijuana border region.
- Protect public health and environmental resources.
- Enhance cross-border collaboration on water management.
- Promote sustainable water practices and infrastructure.
Status:
H.R. 9640 was introduced in the House of Representatives on July 20, 2022. It has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Significance:
The San Diego-Tijuana border region faces significant water quality challenges due to pollution from sewage, industrial discharges, and stormwater runoff. H.R. 9640 aims to address these issues through bi-national cooperation, funding, and monitoring programs. By improving water quality, the bill seeks to enhance public health, protect ecosystems, and support economic development in the border region.
H.R. 9640 (IH) – Border Water Quality Restoration and Protection Act
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Please search for “H.R. 9640 (IH) – Border Water Quality Restoration and Protection Act” which is rapidly rising on Congressional Bills and explain in detail. Answers should be in English.
22