Bill Summary
The proposed legislation, titled the "Rural Water Security Act," seeks to amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 to include Colorado in a specific program aimed at enhancing water resources in western rural areas. The act modifies existing sections of the 1999 law to explicitly mention Colorado, thereby allowing the state to benefit from initiatives and funding intended for rural water development. This inclusion is important for addressing water scarcity and improving water infrastructure in Colorado's rural communities. The amendments specifically relate to three subsections of the original Act, ensuring that Colorado is recognized alongside other western states like Arizona and Idaho in these water resource programs.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the Rural Water Security Act, as described in the provided legislation, could affect people:
1. **Improved Access to Clean Water**: By including Colorado in the western rural water program, the legislation aims to enhance access to clean and reliable water sources for rural communities in Colorado. This can lead to better health outcomes for residents, reduced waterborne diseases, and improved quality of life for individuals and families who depend on these water resources.
2. **Economic Development Opportunities**: The amendment may facilitate infrastructure projects related to water supply and management in Colorado. This could create job opportunities in construction, maintenance, and water resource management sectors, thereby contributing to local economic growth and stability. Additionally, reliable water access can support local agriculture and businesses, further stimulating the economy.
3. **Environmental Protection and Sustainability**: Including Colorado in the program may promote better water management practices and conservation efforts. This can help protect local ecosystems, preserve natural resources, and ensure sustainable water usage. Residents may benefit from initiatives aimed at maintaining the health of rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, which are vital for recreation, wildlife, and overall environmental health.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7631 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7631
To amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 to include
Colorado in a program for western rural water, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 20, 2026
Ms. Pettersen (for herself, Mr. Hurd of Colorado, Mr. Crank, Mr. Crow,
Ms. DeGette, Mr. Evans of Colorado, and Mr. Neguse) introduced the
following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Transportation
and Infrastructure
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 to include
Colorado in a program for western rural water, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Rural Water Security Act''.
SEC. 2. WESTERN RURAL WATER.
Section 595 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 is
amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by inserting ``Colorado,'' before
``Arizona'';
(2) in subsection (c)(1), by inserting ``Colorado,'' before
``Arizona''; and
(3) in subsection (i)(1), by inserting ``Colorado,'' before
``Idaho''.
<all>