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.

Bills Introduced – 6-4-21

Yesterday with just the House meeting in pro forma session, there were 68 bills introduced. Five of those bills may receive additional coverage in this blog:

HR 3684 To authorize funds for Federal-aid highways, highway safety programs, and transit programs, and for other purposes. Rep. DeFazio, Peter A. [D-OR-4]

HR 3691 To amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to establish a smart wastewater infrastructure technology grant program, and for other purposes. Rep. Bourdeaux, Carolyn [D-GA-7]

HR 3701 To establish water infrastructure grant programs. Rep. Delgado, Antonio [D-NY-19] 

HR 3711 To amend title 49, United States Code, regarding the authority of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over highly automated vehicles, to provide safety measures for such vehicles, and for other purposes. Rep. Latta, Robert E. [R-OH-5]

HR 3713 To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue guidance with respect to space systems, services, and technology as critical infrastructure, and for other purposes. Rep. Lieu, Ted [D-CA-33]

I will be watching HR 3684 for language addressing transportation cybersecurity and chemical transportation safety or security issues. I will almost certainly continue to follow this bill through the legislative process for potential amendments addressing the same.

I will be watching both HR 3691 and HR 3701 for language and definitions indicating that cybersecurity technology funding is specifically covered by the respective grant programs.

I will be watching HR 3713 for language or definitions that indicate the required guidance will specifically address control system security issues.

I will be following HR 3711.