Review - HR 3691 Introduced - Wastewater Infrastructure Modernization Act

Last month, Rep Bourdeaux (D,GA) introduced HR 3691, the Wastewater Infrastructure Modernization Act. The bill would establish a smart wastewater infrastructure technology grant program. It amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act by adding a new §222 (note: that will probably be 33 USC §1302). The bill authorizes $500 million for the grant program.

Very similar language to that found in this bill was included in the version of HR 3684, the INVEST in America Act, that passed in the House. It was included as §12011 in Division H (pg 1661). That Division was added to the bill by the House Rules Committee. That means that there will be no committee action taken on this bill until the final status of HR 3684 is resolved. If the language remains in a version of the bill that makes it to the President’s desk, this bill will die a silent death. If that does not happen this bill may resume the legislative process.

For a more detailed review of the provisions of the bill and ways to clarify the coverage of cybersecurity measures, see my article at CFSN Detailed Analysis - https://patrickcoyle.substack.com/p/hr-3691-introduced - subscription required.