[House Report 110-802]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
110th Congress Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session 110-802
======================================================================
WATER USE EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION RESEARCH ACT
_______
July 30, 2008.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Gordon of Tennessee, from the Committee on Science and Technology,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
[To accompany H.R. 3957]
[Including cost estimate of the Congressional Budget Office]
The Committee on Science and Technology, to whom was referred
the bill (H.R. 3957) to increase research, development,
education, and technology transfer activities related to water
use efficiency and conservation technologies and practices at
the Environmental Protection Agency, having considered the
same, report favorably thereon with an amendment and recommend
that the bill as amended do pass.
CONTENTS
Page
I. Amendment.......................................................2
II. Purpose of the Bill.............................................4
III. Background and Need for the Legislation.........................4
IV. Hearing Summary.................................................5
V. Committee Actions...............................................6
VI. Summary of Major Provisions of the Bill, as Reported............7
VII. Section-by-Section Analysis (by Title and Section), as Reported.8
VIII. Committee Views.................................................9
IX. Cost Estimate..................................................10
X. Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate......................10
XI. Compliance with Public Law 104-4...............................11
XII. Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations...............11
XIII. Statement on General Performance Goals and Objectives..........12
XIV. Constitutional Authority Statement.............................12
XV. Federal Advisory Committee Statement...........................12
XVI. Congressional Accountability Act...............................12
XVII. Earmark Identification.........................................12
XVIII.Statement on Preemption of State, Local, or Tribal Law.........12
XIX. Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported..........12
XX. Committee Recommendations......................................12
XXI. Proceedings of the Subcommittee Markup.........................13
XXII. Proceedings of the Full Committee Markup.......................24
XXIII.Exchange of Letters............................................59
I. AMENDMENT
The amendment is as follows:
Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the
following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Research Act''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Between 1950 and 2000, the United States population
increased nearly 90 percent. In that same period, public demand
for water increased 209 percent. Americans now use an average
of 100 gallons of water per person each day. This increased
demand has put additional stress on water supplies and
distribution systems, threatening both human health and the
environment.
(2) Thirty-six States are anticipating local, regional, or
statewide water shortages by 2013. In addition, climate change
related effects are expected to exacerbate already scarce water
resources in many areas of the country.
(3) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's 2007
assessment states that water stored in glaciers and snow cover
is projected to decline, reducing water availability to one-
sixth of the world's population that relies upon meltwater from
major mountain ranges. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change also predicts droughts will become more severe and
longer lasting in a number of regions.
(4) Water conservation should be a national goal and the
Environmental Protection Agency should work with
nongovernmental partners to achieve that goal. The
Environmental Protection Agency should support the research,
development, and dissemination of technologies and processes
that will achieve greater water use efficiency.
(5) WaterSense is a voluntary public-private partnership
program established by the Environmental Protection Agency to
promote water efficiency by helping consumers identify water-
efficient products and practices. The Environmental Protection
Agency estimates that if all United States households installed
water-efficient appliances, the country would save more than
3,000,000,000,000 gallons of water and more than
$17,000,000,000 per year.
(6) The WaterSense program has developed a network of
partners, and therefore can disseminate the results of research
on technologies and processes that achieve greater water use
efficiency.
SEC. 3. RESEARCH PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--The Assistant Administrator for Research and
Development of the Environmental Protection Agency (in this Act
referred to as the ``Assistant Administrator'') shall establish a
research and development program consistent with the plan developed
under section 4 that promotes water use efficiency and conservation,
including--
(1) technologies and processes that enable the collection,
storage, treatment, and reuse of rainwater, stormwater, and
greywater;
(2) water storage and distribution systems;
(3) behavioral, social, and economic barriers to achieving
greater water use efficiency; and
(4) use of watershed planning directed toward water quality,
conservation, and supply.
(b) Considerations.--In planning and implementing the program, the
Assistant Administrator shall consider--
(1) research needs identified by water resource managers,
State and local governments, and other interested parties; and
(2) technologies and processes likely to achieve the greatest
increases in water use efficiency and conservation.
(c) Minority Serving Institutions.--In the execution of this program,
the Assistant Administrator may award extramural grants to institutions
of higher education and shall encourage participation by Minority
Serving Institutions.
SEC. 4. STRATEGIC RESEARCH PLAN.
(a) In General.--The Assistant Administrator shall coordinate the
development of a strategic research plan (in this Act referred to as
the ``plan'') for the water use efficiency and conservation research
and development program established in section 3 with all other
Environmental Protection Agency research and development strategic
plans.
(b) Plan Contents.--The plan shall--
(1) outline research goals and priorities for a water use
efficiency and conservation research agenda, including--
(A) developing innovative water supply-enhancing
processes and technologies; and
(B) improving existing processes and technologies,
including wastewater treatment, desalinization, and
groundwater recharge and recovery schemes;
(2) identify current Federal research efforts on water that
are directed toward meeting the goals of improving water use
efficiency, water conservation, or expanding water supply and
describe how such efforts are coordinated with the program
established in section 3 in order to leverage resources and
avoid duplication; and
(3) consider and utilize, as appropriate, recommendations in
reports and studies conducted by Federal agencies, the National
Research Council, the National Science and Technology Council,
or other entities in the development of the plan.
(c) Science Advisory Board Review.--The Assistant Administrator shall
submit the plan to the Science Advisory Board of the Environmental
Protection Agency for review.
(d) Revision.--The plan shall be revised and amended as needed to
reflect current scientific findings and national research priorities.
SEC. 5. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER.
The Assistant Administrator, building on the results of the
activities of the program established under section 3, shall--
(1) facilitate the adoption of technology and processes to
promote water use efficiency and conservation; and
(2) collect and disseminate information, including the
establishment of a publicly-accessible clearinghouse, on
technologies and processes to promote water use efficiency and
conservation, including information on--
(A) incentives and impediments to development and
commercialization;
(B) best practices; and
(C) anticipated increases in water use efficiency and
conservation resulting from the implementation of
specific technologies and processes.
SEC. 6. ADVANCED WATER EFFICIENCY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.
(a) In General.--As part of the program under section 3, the
Assistant Administrator shall carry out at least 4 projects under which
the funding is provided for the incorporation into a building of the
latest water use efficiency and conservation technologies and designs.
Funding for each project shall be provided only to cover incremental
costs of water-use efficiency and conservation technologies.
(b) Criteria.--Of the 4 projects described in subsection (a), at
least 1 shall be for a residential building and at least 1 shall be for
a commercial building.
(c) Public Availability.--The designs of buildings with respect to
which funding is provided under subsection (a) shall be made available
to the public, and such buildings shall be accessible to the public for
tours and educational purposes.
SEC. 7. REPORT.
Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and
once every 2 years thereafter, the Assistant Administrator shall
transmit to Congress a report which details the progress being made by
the Environmental Protection Agency with regard to--
(1) water use efficiency and conservation research projects
initiated by the Agency;
(2) development projects initiated by the Agency;
(3) outreach and communication activities conducted by the
Agency concerning water use efficiency and conservation; and
(4) development and implementation of the plan.
SEC. 8. WATER MANAGEMENT STUDY AND REPORT.
(a) Study.--
(1) Requirement.--The Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency shall enter into an arrangement with the
National Academy of Sciences to complete a study of low impact
and soft path strategies for management of water supply,
wastewater, and stormwater.
(2) Contents.--The study shall--
(A) examine and compare the state of research,
technology development, and emerging practices in other
developed and developing countries with those in the
United States;
(B) identify and evaluate relevant system approaches
for comprehensive water management, including the
interrelationship of water systems with other major
systems such as energy and transportation;
(C) identify priority research and development needs;
and
(D) assess implementation needs and barriers.
(b) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
shall transmit to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of
the Senate a report on the key findings of the study conducted under
subsection (a). The report shall evaluate challenges and opportunities
and serve as a practical reference for water managers, planners,
developers, scientists, engineers, non-governmental organizations,
federal agencies, and regulators by recommending innovative and
integrated solutions.
(c) Definitions.--For purposes of this section--
(1) the term ``low impact'' means a strategy that manages
rainfall at the source using uniformly distributed
decentralized micro-scale controls to mimic a site's
predevelopment hydrology by using design techniques that
infiltrate, filter, store, evaporate, and detain runoff close
to its source; and
(2) the term ``soft path'' means a general framework that
encompasses--
(A) increased efficiency of water use;
(B) integration of water supply, wastewater
treatment, and stormwater management systems; and
(C) protection, restoration, and effective use of the
natural capacities of ecosystems to provide clean
water.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection
Agency for carrying out this section $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.
SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Assistant
Administrator for carrying out this Act $20,000,000 for each of the
fiscal years 2009 through 2013.
II. PURPOSE OF THE BILL
The purpose of the H.R. 3957 is to increase research,
development, education, and technology transfer activities at
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) related to water use
efficiency and conservation technologies and practices.
III. BACKGROUND AND NEED FOR LEGISLATION
Drought and recent water shortages in several regions of
the United States have increased concern about water supply at
all levels of government. Since 1950, the United States
population has increased nearly 90 percent. In that same
period, public demand for water has increased 209 percent.
Americans now use an average of 100 gallons of water per person
each day, which results in a daily water use of approximately
26 billion gallons of water. This increased demand has put
additional stress on water supplies and distribution systems,
threatening the environment and constraining economic activity.
Thirty six states are anticipating local, regional, or
statewide water shortages by 2013. Some states are already in
the middle of a severe drought.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Governmental Accountability Office. Fresh Water Supply: States'
Views of How Federal Agencies Could Help Them Meet the Challenges of
Expected Shortages. GAO. July 2003. GAO-03-514.
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Although some water efficiency strategies require an
initial capital investment, in the long run, conserving water
provides significant cost savings for water and wastewater
systems. Water efficiency and re-use programs help systems
avoid, downsize, and postpone expensive infrastructure
projects, by developing new water supplies.
In conjunction with its statutory responsibilities to
ensure water quality under the Clean Water Act and the Safe
Drinking Water Act, EPA has a program of research and
development on water treatment technologies, health effects of
water pollutants, security from deliberate contamination, and
watershed protection. Current annual funding for these
activities is approximately $50 million. EPA currently has no
research and development effort that addresses water supply,
water-use efficiency or conservation.
There is also a lack of focused research and development
efforts aimed at addressing water-use efficiency and
conservation in other agencies of the federal government,
especially focused on residential and commercial uses. Because
of the Agency's complementary work on water quality, EPA is the
logical federal entity to complete this research due to the
important relationship between water supply and water quality.
In May, EPA's Science Advisory Board (SAB) released their
annual report on the Agency's budget proposal for Research and
Development for FY 2009.\2\ In the SAB's Report, the SAB
recommended that, ``in light of changing socio-economic
pressures and the growing stresses that will result from
climate change (reduced snow pack, more intermittent
precipitation and stream flows, more frequent drought, etc.),
expand the analysis of water infrastructures, supply, demand
and quality''.\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\2\U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Science Advisory Board.
2008. Comments on EPA's Research Budget for Fiscal Year 2009: A Report
of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Science Advisory Board
(SAB). EPA-SAB-08-008. May 12, 2008. 35 pp.
\3\Ibid. p. 4 and 5.
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IV. HEARING SUMMARY
The Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing
on Tuesday, October 30, 2007 to receive testimony on H.R. 3957,
The Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act (and
also H.R. 2339, The Produced Water Utilization Act) from the
following witnesses:
Dr. Glen Daigger, Vice President at CH2MHill.
Mr. Ed Clerico, CEO of Alliance Environmental and
Designer at the Solaire Project in New York City.
Ms. Val Little, Director of the Water Conservation
Alliance of Southern Arizona and Principal Research Specialist
at the University of Arizona's College of Architecture and
Landscape Architecture.
Mr. Ron Thompson, District Manager of the
Washington County Water Conservancy District.
Mr. John Veil, Senior Scientist at Argonne
National Laboratory.
Chairman Nick Lampson (D-TX) opened the hearing by
discussing the need for water conservation and efficiency,
particularly in drought ridden areas. Ranking Member Bob Inglis
(R-SC) agreed and indicated his intention to ask the
Environmental Protection Agency to comment on H.R. 3957.
Mr. Daigger stated that with increased population growth
and urbanization, transporting clean, safe water is no longer
effective or even necessary. Instead, municipalities can treat
reclaimed water at site with membranes, advanced oxidation and
ultra-violet light. While these technologies are available now,
Mr. Daigger urged Congress to support efforts to deliver these
technologies more quickly and to authorize demonstration
programs.
Mr. Thompson discussed the importance of water conservation
in the desert in Utah and felt that this was accomplished
through adoption of technologies, such as low-flow appliances
and fixtures and by educating the public.
Mr. Clerico testified on the importance of innovative
technology for water conservation. He cited several large scale
facilities, like the New England Patriots football stadium,
where innovative design and equipment reduced water usage, and
he emphasized the importance of research to accomplish these
goals.
Ms. Little emphasized the importance of including the views
of the over 200 partners of the WaterSense Program in the
effort to prioritize the areas of applied research in water
conservation. She believes that sound decision making requires
policy makers to know which demographics have the highest
potential for increased water use efficiency. She also felt
grey water offered a great deal of potential savings in water
supplies and that all water use should be metered in the
nation. Ms. Little also stressed there were limits to what
could be achieved in water conservation through adoption of
technology alone. She indicated that human behavior is also an
important factor that must be considered if we are to achieve
water conservation goals.
Dr. Daigger testified to the importance of demonstrations
as a part of this program stating, ``demonstrations can pull
several elements together to see how an integrated system can
function at a much higher level.'' Several other witnesses
echoed his comments on the need for such projects in the bill.
Mr. Clerico, the designer of the Solaire Project in NYC,
responded to a question raised about the need for a federal
role in this area. He argued that many water technologies face
a ``confidence barrier'' which would be crucial in speeding up
public acceptance of certain water efficiency technologies
On the subject of funding, witnesses gave a range for what
would be appropriate. They discussed the fact that Singapore is
investing $330 million in new research on water technologies
for only 4.5 million people. Dr. Daigger recommended a budget
of $100 million a year as an optimal level for the program.
V. COMMITTEE ACTIONS
On October 24, 2007, Rep. Jim Matheson introduced H.R.
3957, The Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
which was referred to the Committee on Science and Technology.
In the 110th Congress the Subcommittee on Energy and
Environment met to consider H.R. 3957 on May 6, 2008.
Mr. Baird moved that the Subcommittee favorably report the
bill, H.R. 3957, to the Full Committee on Science and
Technology. The motion was agreed to by a voice vote.
The Committee on Science and Technology met to consider
H.R. 3957 on July 16, 2008. The Committee considered the
following amendments:
Mr. Matheson offered a manager's amendment to make
technical corrections to the bill, to add a new Section to the
bill to require the Administrator to carry out projects to
incorporate water use efficiency and conservation technologies
and designs into buildings to demonstrate their feasibility,
and to authorize $20 million per year for the programs required
under the Act for the five-year period beginning in fiscal year
2009.
The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Ms. Johnson offered an amendment to establish a publicly-
accessible clearinghouse of information on technologies and
processes to promote water use efficiency and conservation; to
include watershed water efficiency planning as a component of
the research program; and to allow the Assistant Administrator
to allocate extramural grants to institutions of higher
education, including Minority Serving Institutions.
The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Mr. Gingrey offered an amendment to require EPA to create a
strategic plan for the water use efficiency and conservation
research program.
The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Ms. Giffords offered an amendment to direct EPA to enter
into an agreement with the National Academy of Science to
produce a report on water strategies for the management of
water supply, wastewater, and stormwater.
The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
H.R. 3957, as amended, was agreed to by a voice vote.
Mr. Matheson moved that the Committee favorably report the
bill, H.R. 3957 to the House, as amended. The motion was agreed
to by a voice vote.
VI. SUMMARY OF MAJOR PROVISIONS OF THE BILL, AS REPORTED
H.R. 3957 establishes a research and development program
within the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research
and Development (ORD) to promote water use efficiency and
conservation. The research program includes the development of
technologies and processes to expand water supplies through
storage, treatment, and reuse of rainwater, stormwater, and
greywater; research on water storage and distribution systems;
research on behavioral, social, and economic barriers to
achieving greater water efficiency; and research on the use of
watershed planning.
The Administrator is directed to consult with stakeholders
in developing the research agenda and to give priority to
research and development projects that are likely to achieve
the greatest water conservation benefits. The Assistant
Administrator may award extramural grants in order to meet the
goals of the program and is directed to encourage participation
by Minority Serving Institutions.
The act requires EPA to develop a strategic research plan
to guide the program established in the bill. EPA's Science
Advisory Board is required to review the plan and the program
is required to be consistent with the plan.
H.R. 3957 requires the Assistant Administrator of the
Office of Research and Development to facilitate the adoption
of technology and processes to increase water efficiency and
conservation and to provide information on technologies and
processes that achieve these goals. In addition, the bill will
collect information on technologies and processes that achieve
greater water use efficiency and conservation and disseminate
this information through a public clearinghouse.
The legislation directs the Administrator to conduct
advanced water efficiency development projects to demonstrate
the application of advanced water efficiency designs and
technologies in buildings. The Administrator is directed to
conduct at least four projects. EPA will provide funding only
to cover the incremental costs of adding water-use efficiency
and conservation technologies to the buildings.
H.R. 3957 requires EPA to enter into an arrangement with
the National Academy of Sciences to complete a study of low
impact and soft path strategies for management of water supply,
waste water, and stormwater. The report will be delivered to
Congress within 2 years of enactment.
The bill requires a report within 18 months of enactment
and every two years thereafter on research and development
projects and on the outreach and communication activities
conducted by the Agency. The bill authorizes $20 million per
year for fiscal years 2009 through 2013.
VII. SECTION-BY-SECTION ANALYSIS OF THE BILL, AS REPORTED
Section 1: Short title
The Water-Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act.
Section 2: Findings
Section 2 includes the Congressional findings and defines
the need for expanding the scope of research and development
conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency to include
water-use efficiency and conservation to address the problems
of increasing water shortages across the country.
Section 3: Research program
Section 3 directs the Assistant Administrator to establish
a research and development program within the Environmental
Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development to
promote water-use efficiency and conservation. The bill
provides examples of several areas the program should address
including water storage and distribution systems; and
behavioral, social, and economic barriers to achieving greater
water-use efficiency. In addition, the bill states the program
should research technologies and processes that enable the
collection, storage, treatment, and reuse of rainwater,
stormwater, and greywater. The specific projects selected for
funding through the program should reflect the needs identified
by a variety of stakeholders including water managers, state
and local governments, and other interested parties. In
execution of the program, the Assistant Administrator may
provide extramural grants to colleges and universities and
encourage participation by Minority Serving Institutions.
Section 4: Strategic plan
Section 4 directs the Assistant Administrator to coordinate
the development of a strategic plan for the program. The Plan's
contents shall outline the research goals and priorities of the
program, identify other current federal research efforts on
water that are directed toward conservation, and consider
reports and studies on water-use efficiency and conservation.
EPA's Science Advisory Board is directed to review the Plan.
Section 5: Technology transfer
Section 5 directs the Assistant Administrator to collect
and disseminate information on current water-use efficient and
conservation technologies and practices to facilitate their
adoption. This information should include incentives and
impediments to development and commercialization, best
practices, and anticipated increases in water-use efficiency
resulting from the implementation of these processes. In
addition, Section 5 establishes a publicly-accessible
clearinghouse on technologies and processes to promote water
use efficiency and conservation.
Section 6: Advanced water efficiency and development projects
Section 6 directs the Assistant Administrator to carry out
at least four projects to demonstrate cutting edge water-use
efficiency and conservation technologies. Of the four projects,
at least one shall be for a residential building and one for a
commercial building. The buildings are required to be publicly
accessible.
Section 7: Report
Section 7 directs the Assistant Administrator to report to
Congress within 18 months of enactment and then on a biannual
basis on the progress being made by the Environmental
Protection Agency with regard to the research and development
projects initiated and the outreach and communication
activities conducted through the program.
Section 8: Water management study and report
Section 8 directs EPA to enter into an agreement with the
National Academy of Sciences to produce a report on strategies
for the management of water supply, wastewater, and stormwater
within 2 years of enactment. The section includes an
authorization of $1 million for the study.
Section 9: Authorization of appropriations
Section 9 provides an authorization of $20 million per year
over a five year period from fiscal years 2009 through 2013.
VIII. COMMITTEE VIEWS
The Committee believes EPA should give more focused
attention to the goal of ensuring a sustainable water supply by
increasing water-use efficiency and conservation.
The Committee expects the Office of Research and
Development to work with the Office of Water to integrate the
goals of water-use efficiency and conservation into the water
quality and treatment programs conducted by the Agency. The
Committee recognizes water quality and water supply are closely
linked and believes the Agency should pursue and encourage
implementation of options that will accomplish both water
quality and water conservation goals.
H.R. 3957 explicitly lists a number of areas that the
program should address including technologies and processes
that enable the collection, storage, treatment, and reuse of
rainwater, stormwater, and greywater. The Committee does not
consider this list to be exclusive. Innovative wastewater
treatment options should also be pursued through this program
if the Agency determines the research would meet the overall
goals of increasing water-use efficiency and conservation.
The Committee expects the Assistant Administrator to
consult with a variety of stakeholder groups to determine
research needs and develop the strategic plan for research
conducted under this program. Tribal and territorial
governments should also be included in these consultations.
The Committee expects the strategic plan for this program
to be developed in accordance with the Agency's strategic
planning process for other research programs. The plan for the
research program on water use efficiency and conservation
should consider and be integrated, as appropriate into other
Agency research plans on water resources including the
strategic plans for drinking water, water quality, and
ecological research.
The Committee recognizes the goals of increased water-use
efficiency and conservation will not be achieved if the results
of the research and technology development of this program are
not implemented by the public and private sectors with
responsibilities of water management and by individual
citizens. The Committee believes a strong technology transfer
program is necessary to ensure wide dissemination of the
results of this research conducted under this program.
The Committee expects the development projects required
under Section 6 to serve as educational tools for local
communities through tours and local outreach programs. The
Committee believes providing access to the system designs and
specific information about the technologies incorporated into
the buildings that participate in these projects via the
program's website will encourage others to adopt water
conserving designs and technologies.
IX. COST ESTIMATE
A cost estimate and comparison prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office under section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 has been timely submitted to
the Committee on Science and Technology prior to the filing of
this report and is included in Section X of this report
pursuant to House Rule XIII, clause 3(c)(3).
H.R. 3957 does not contain new budget authority, credit
authority, or changes in revenues or tax expenditures. Assuming
that the sums authorized under the bill are appropriated, H.R.
3957 does authorize additional discretionary spending, as
described in the Congressional Budget Office report on the
bill, which is contained in Section XI of this report.
X. CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE COST ESTIMATE
H.R. 3957--Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
Summary: H.R. 3957 would authorize appropriations totaling
$101 million over the 2009-2013 period for the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) to support activities to promote
conservation and the efficient use of water. Assuming
appropriation of the authorized amounts, CBO estimates that
implementing H.R. 3957 would cost $86 million over the 2009-
2013 period and $15 million after 2013. Enacting the
legislation would not affect direct spending or revenues.
H.R. 3957 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector
mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA)
and would impose no costs on state, local, or tribal
governments.
Estimated cost to the Federal Government: The estimated
budgetary impact of H.R. 3957 is shown in the following table.
The costs of this legislation fall within budget function 300
(natural resources and environment).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By fiscal year, in millions of dollars--
-------------------------------------------------------
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2009-2013
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHANGES IN SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION
Authorization Level..................................... 21 20 20 20 20 101
Estimated Outlays....................................... 9 17 20 20 20 86
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Basis of estimate: H.R. 3957 would authorize EPA to
establish a research and development program to improve the
storage, treatment, and distribution of water in the United
States. The bill directs EPA to conduct a study in cooperation
with the National Academy of Sciences that would examine
strategies to enhance water supply management. It also would
require EPA to establish a publicly accessible clearinghouse to
disseminate information regarding new technologies and
processes that improve water-use efficiency. Finally, the bill
would allow EPA to award grants to universities for research
related to the conservation and efficient use of water.
H.R. 3957 would authorize the appropriation of $21 million
in 2009 and $20 million in each of fiscal years 2010 through
2013. Assuming the appropriation of the authorized amounts, CBO
estimates that implementing H.R. 3957 would cost $86 million
over the 2009-2013 period and $15 million after 2013. That
estimate is based on historical spending patterns for similar
programs.
Intergovernmental and private-sector impact: H.R. 3957
contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as
defined in UMRA and would create a grant program for research
on water-use efficiency benefitting institutions of higher
education. Any costs state, local, or tribal governments might
incur, including matching funds, would result from complying
with conditions of aid.
Estimate prepared by: Federal Costs: Susanne Mehlman and
Jeffrey LaFave; Impact on State, Local, and Tribal Governments:
Neil Hood; Impact on the Private Sector: Amy Petz.
Estimate approved by: Theresa Gullo, Deputy Assistant
Director for Budget Analysis.
XI. COMPLIANCE WITH PUBLIC LAW 104-4
H.R. 3957 contains no unfunded mandates.
XII. COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The oversight findings and recommendations of the Committee
on Science and Technology are reflected in the body of this
report.
XIII. STATEMENT ON GENERAL PERFORMANCE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Pursuant to clause (3)(c) of House Rule XIII, the goal of
H.R. 3957 is to increase research, development, education, and
technology transfer activities at the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) related to water use efficiency and conservation
technologies and practices. These activities should improve
technologies and processes to increase water availability and
supply in the United States.
XIV. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY STATEMENT
Article I, section 8 of the Constitution of the United
States grants Congress the authority to enact H.R. 3957.
XV. FEDERAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE STATEMENT
H.R. 3957 does not establish nor authorize the
establishment of any advisory committee.
XVI. CONGRESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
The Committee finds that H.R. 3957 does not relate to the
terms and conditions of employment or access to public services
or accommodations within the meaning of section 102(b)(3) of
the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 104-1).
XVII. EARMARK IDENTIFICATION
H.R. 3957 does not contain any congressional earmarks,
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in
clause 9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of rule XXI.
XVIII. STATEMENT ON PREEMPTION OF STATE, LOCAL, OR TRIBAL LAW
This bill is not intended to preempt any state, local, or
tribal law.
XIX. CHANGES IN EXISTING LAW MADE BY THE BILL, AS REPORTED
H.R. 3957, as reported, makes no changes in existing law.
XX. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
On July 16, 2008, the Committee on Science and Technology
favorably reported H.R. 3957, as amended, by a voice vote and
recommended its enactment.
XXI. PROCEEDINGS OF THE MARKUP BY THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND
ENVIRONMENT ON H.R. 3957, THE WATER USE EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
RESEARCH ACT
----------
TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2008
House of Representatives,
Subcommittee on Energy and Environment,
Committee on Science,
Washington, DC.
The Subcommittee met, pursuant to call, at 10:10 a.m., in
Room 2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Nick
Lampson [Chairman of the Subcommittee] presiding.
Chairman Lampson. Good morning. The Subcommittee on Energy
and Environment will come to order.
Pursuant to notice, the Subcommittee on Energy and
Environment meets to consider the following measures: H.R.
3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act,
and H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization Act of 2007.
We will now proceed with the markup beginning with opening
statements, and I will begin.
Today the Subcommittee will consider two bills aimed at
increasing water supply through research and technology
innovation. Water utilities across the country withdraw roughly
40 billion gallons of water per day for domestic consumption,
industrial processing, energy production and fire protection.
As population and energy use continue to grow, so will the
demand for water. We need to find ways to preserve, reuse and
augment our water supplies.
First, we will take up H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency
and Conservation Research Act, introduced by Representative Jim
Matheson. H.R. 3957 establishes a research and development
program within the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of
Research and Development to promote water use efficiency and
conservation.
Through this program, EPA will be able to develop and
encourage the adoption of technologies and processes that will
achieve greater water use efficiency, thus helping to address
the water supply shortages. The program will help spur
innovation in the collection, treatment and reuse of rainwater
and greywater, the wastewater from sinks, baths and kitchen
appliances.
Next, we will consider H.R. 2339, the Produced Water
Utilization Act, introduced by my colleague from Texas and our
Ranking Member, Mr. Hall. This bill creates a research,
development and demonstration program to promote the beneficial
reuse of water produced in connection with oil and gas
extraction. In the United States, up to 2.3 billion gallons per
day of produced water is generated, and unfortunately, this
water is not of sufficient quality to be used to meet many of
our needs for water. This legislation will produce innovative
treatment technologies that will enable the refuse of this
water in an environmentally responsible way.
These two bills are important steps in ensuring adequate
water supply across the United States. I ask my colleagues to
support passage of both pieces of legislation by our
subcommittee this morning.
[The prepared statement of Chairman Lampson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Chairman Nick Lampson
Today the Subcommittee will consider two bills aimed at increasing
water supply through research and technology innovation. Water
utilities across the country withdraw roughly 40 billion gallons of
water per day for domestic consumption, industrial processing, energy
production, and fire protection. As population and energy use continues
to grow, so will the demand for water. We need to find ways to
preserve, reuse, and augment our water supplies.
First, we will take up H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation Research Act introduced by Representative Jim Matheson.
H.R. 3957 establishes a research and development program within the
Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development to
promote water-use efficiency and conservation.
Through this program, EPA will be able to develop and encourage the
adoption of technologies and processes that will achieve greater water-
use efficiency thus helping to address the water supply shortages. The
program will help spur innovation in the collection, treatment, and
reuse of rainwater and greywater--the waste water from sinks, baths and
kitchen appliances.
Next, we will consider H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization
Act introduced by my colleague from Texas and our Ranking Member, Mr.
Hall. This bill creates a research, development, and demonstration
program to promote the beneficial reuse of water produced in connection
with oil and gas extraction. In the United States, up to 2.3 billion
gallons per day of produced water is generated. Unfortunately, this
water is not of sufficient quality to be used to meet our many needs
for water. This legislation will provide innovative treatment
technologies that will enable the reuse of this water in an
environmentally responsible way.
These two bills are important steps in ensuring adequate water
supply across the United States. I ask my colleagues to support passage
of both pieces of legislation by our subcommittee this morning.
Chairman Lampson. I now recognize Mr. Inglis to present his
opening remarks.
Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this
markup. I appreciate Ranking Member Hall's and Mr. Matheson's
work to introduce the bills we will address today. H.R. 2339,
the Produced Water Utilization Act, and H.R. 3957, the Water
Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act, both highlight
the need to think more conservatively about invaluable water
resources.
We don't have to look far to realize the devastating
effects water shortages can have in our lives. Fires
threatening and destroying California, droughts debilitating
crops in South Carolina and a number of other southeastern
states, and global citizens have to travel farther and farther
to have access to fresh water. By supporting research,
development and demonstration projects in water use efficiency,
conservation, and the challenges raised by produced water, we
can help improve our national and global response to water
shortages.
Mr. Chairman, when we held a Subcommittee hearing on H.R.
3957 in October, the witnesses testified that there had been
significant amount of investment from the private sector in
water technologies. Since EPA was not invited as a witness to
that hearing, I asked the EPA for comments on the work they
were already doing in this area. I am sad to say that they have
not yet replied to my request, and I would ask the EPA to
submit their suggestions before the Full Committee markup.
Mr. Chairman and Mr. Matheson, I hope we can work together
to ensure that we do not jeopardize or duplicate the work
already being done at EPA and in the private sector.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I look forward to working with
you to advance the legislation.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis
Thank you for holding this markup, Mr. Chairman.
I appreciate Ranking Member Hall's and Mr. Matheson's work to
introduce the bills we will address today. H.R. 2339, the Produced
Water Utilization Act, and H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation Research Act, both highlight the need to think more
conservatively about invaluable water resources.
We don't have to look far to realize the devastating effects water
shortages can have in our lives--fires threatening and destroying
California, droughts debilitate crops in South Carolina and a number of
other southeastern states, and global citizens have to travel farther
and farther to have access to fresh water. By supporting research,
development, and demonstration projects in water use efficiency,
conservation, and the challenges raised by produced water, we can help
improve our national and global response to water shortages.
Mr. Chairman, when we held a Subcommittee hearing on H.R. 3957 back
in October, the witnesses testified that there has been a significant
amount of investment from the private sector in water technologies.
Since EPA was not invited as a witness to that hearing, I asked for
EPA's comments on what work they are already doing in this area. I'm
disappointed that EPA has not yet replied to my request, and would ask
that EPA submit their suggestions before the Full Committee markup. Mr.
Chairman and Mr. Matheson, I hope we can work together to ensure that
we do not jeopardize or duplicate the work already being done at EPA
and in the private sector.
Thank you again, Mr. Chairman, and I look forward to working with
you to advance this legislation.
Chairman Lampson. Thank you, Mr. Inglis.
Without objection, Members may place additional opening
remarks in the record at this point.
We will now consider H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency
and Conservation Research Act. I mentioned the goals of the
legislation in my opening, and I will just again express my
support for the gentleman from Utah's bill and I now recognize
Mr. Inglis to present any remarks on the bill.
Mr. Inglis. Mr. Chairman, I have no further remarks.
Chairman Lampson. Does anyone wish to be recognized on this
bill? Mr. Baird.
Mr. Baird. I would just commend the authors. You know, as
we look at the situation in the world today, water is
increasingly scarce, as was noted, and I commend the authors of
both pieces of legislation today for recognizing that. I also
particularly appreciate Mr. Matheson's bill language dealing
with the social and behavioral aspects of water conservation
and reuse.
Chairman Lampson. Thank you very much.
Anyone else wish to be recognized? I ask unanimous consent
then that the bill is considered as read and open to amendment
at any point and that Members proceed with the amendments in
order of the roster. Without objection, so ordered.
Are there any amendments? Hearing none, the vote is on the
bill, H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Research Act. All those in favor will say aye. Those opposed,
say no. In the opinion of the Chair, the ayes have it.
I recognize Mr. Baird to offer a motion.
Mr. Baird. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Subcommittee
favorably report H.R. 3957 to the Full Committee. Furthermore,
I move that staff be instructed to prepare the Subcommittee
legislative report and make necessary technical and conforming
changes to the bill in accordance with the recommendation of
the Subcommittee.
Chairman Lampson. The question is on the motion to report
the bill favorably. Those in favor of the motion will signify
by saying aye. Those oppose, no. The ayes have it, and the bill
is favorably reported.
Without objection the motion to reconsider is laid upon the
table. Subcommittee Members may submit additional or Minority
views on the measure.
I want to thank the Members for their attendance. This
concludes our Subcommittee markup. Mr. Hall can go make his
speech and the rest of us can have a good day. We are
adjourned.
[Whereupon, at 10:22 a.m., the Subcommittee was adjourned.]
Appendix:
----------
H.R. 3957, Section-by-Section Analysis
Section-by-Section Analysis of H.R. 3957,
Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
Purpose: To increase research, development, education, and
technology transfer activities related to water use efficiency and
conservation technologies and practices at the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
Section 1: Short Title
The ``Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act''.
Section 2: Findings
Section 2 includes the Congressional findings and defines the need
for expanding the scope of research and development conducted by the
Environmental Protection agency to include water use efficiency and
conservation to address the problems of increasing water shortages
across the country.
Section 3: Research Program
Section 3 directs the Assistant Administrator to establish a
research, development, and demonstration program within the
Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development to
promote water use efficiency and conservation. The bill provides
examples of several areas the program should address including water
storage and distribution systems; and behavioral, social, and economic
barriers to achieving greater water use efficiency. In addition, the
bill states the program should research technologies and processes that
enable the collection, treatment, and reuse of rainwater and greywater.
The specific projects selected for funding through the program should
reflect the needs identified by local and State water managers.
Section 4: Technology Transfer
Section 4 directs the Assistant Administrator to collect and
disseminate information on current water use efficient and conservation
technologies and practices to facilitate their adoption. This
information should include incentives and impediments to development
and commercialization, best practices, and anticipated increases in
water use efficiency resulting from the implementation of these
processes.
Section 5: Report
Section 5 directs the Assistant Administrator to report to Congress
on the progress being made by the Environmental Protection Agency with
regard to the research projects initiated, and the outreach and
communication activities conducted through the program.
Section 6: Authorization of Appropriations
Section 6 provides a five-year authorization of the program with
such sums as necessary to carry out the program.
XXII. PROCEEDINGS OF THE FULL COMMITTEE MARKUP ON H.R. 3957, THE WATER
USE EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION RESEARCH ACT
----------
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16, 2008
House of Representatives,
Committee on Science,
Washington, DC.
The Committee met, pursuant to call, at 10:05 a.m., in Room
2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Bart Gordon
[Chairman of the Committee] presiding.
Chairman Gordon. Good morning. The Committee will come to
order.
Pursuant to notice, the Committee on Science and Technology
meets to consider the following measures: H.R. 3957, the Water
Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act; H.R. 2339, the
Produced Water Utilization Act of 2007; and H.R. 6323, To
establish a research, development, demonstration and commercial
application program to promote research of appropriate
technologies for heavy duty plug-in hybrid vehicles, and for
other purposes.
Before we start the markup, we have some Committee business
to attend to. Yesterday, Ms. Donna Edwards of Maryland was
appointed to serve on the Committee on Science and Technology.
We currently have an open subcommittee slot on the Energy and
Environmental Subcommittee, and I would like to ask unanimous
consent that Ms. Edwards be elected to the Subcommittee.
Without objection, so ordered.
Congratulations, Ms. Edwards. I know that a lot that we do
here on this committee affects Maryland and we look forward to
working with you to get your input on that and also for you to
be a liaison as well as Mr. Bartlett.
Mr. Bartlett, do you want to welcome our new Member?
Mr. Bartlett. Very happy to have you aboard. Our districts
adjoin each other. When we have common interests, I will look
forward to working with you. Thank you.
Ms. Edwards. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and Mr. Bartlett.
Thank you.
Chairman Gordon. And when you don't have common interests,
you will still work with her though, won't you?
Mr. Bartlett. Absolutely, but all the more so when we have
common interests.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you. We will now proceed with the
markup.
Dwindling water supplies across the United States continue
to percolate as the major disaster on our nation's horizon.
Despite large spring rains in some states, the U.S. Drought
Monitor shows that severe drought still grips the American
Southeast, California across the Rocky Mountains, and Oklahoma
and the Texas panhandle. In an effort to protect the country
from an impending water scarcity crisis, the Committee has
begun to search out ways for the Federal Government to spur new
technology innovation in water research and development. Today
the Committee will consider two bills aimed at preventing a
future water supply catastrophe.
First, we will take up H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency
and Conservation Research Act, introduced by Representative Jim
Matheson. H.R. 3957 establishes a research and development
program within the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of
Research and Development to promote water-use efficiency and
conservation.
Through this program, EPA will be able to develop and
encourage the adoption of technologies and processes that will
achieve greater water-use efficiencies, thus helping to address
the water supply shortages. In addition, H.R. 3957 directs EPA
to disseminate information on current water-use efficiencies
and conservation technologies. This information will include
incentives and impediments to development and
commercialization.
Next we will consider H.R. 2339, the Produced Water
Utilization Act, introduced by our colleague from Texas and our
Ranking Member, Mr. Hall. This bill creates a research,
development and demonstration program to promote beneficial
reuse of water produced in connection with oil and gas
extraction. In the United States, up to 2.3 billion gallons per
day of produced water is generated. Unfortunately, this water
is not of sufficient quality to be used to meet our many needs
for water. This legislation will provide innovative treatment
technologies that will enable the reuse of this water in an
environmentally responsible way.
Let me also say that Congressman Hall and I have been
discussing the issues of water. We think there are a variety of
other things. We started this effort this year. We are going to
continue to look into it next year and we hope that we are
going to have again probably a series of bipartisan bills that
we might combine for a real, again a major effort in water
conservation and technologies for this important problem that
faces our nation.
Finally, we will consider H.R. 6323, the Heavy Duty Hybrid
Research, Development and Demonstration Act, introduced by the
Ranking Member of the Investigations and Oversight
Subcommittee, Mr. Sensenbrenner. With skyrocketing full prices,
energy concerns have been cemented at the forefront of public
awareness. This committee has responded by pursuing an
aggressive energy agenda in 2010 and we will continue this in
the next Congress, and we provided a substantial portfolio of
bills to the comprehensive energy package which became law last
December. Mr. Sensenbrenner's bill represents another common
sense approach to chipping away at our energy challenge.
The heavy duty sector accounts for a very large portion of
the Nation's fuel use and transportation-based emissions and
even small improvements in their efficiency can have a
substantial impact. Hybrid technologies hold the promise of
greatly reducing the fuel consumption by the Nation's truck
fleet. Mr. Sensenbrenner and his staff have worked closely with
the Majority to ensure that grants under this program explore a
wide range of hybrid technologies and applications and he has
made further improvements with an amendment in the nature of a
substitute.
These three bills are important steps in ensuring that we
have adequate water and power supplies across the country, and
in pushing innovation in the heavy truck sector. I want to
thank Representative Matheson, Representative Sensenbrenner and
Ranking Member Hall for their efforts in these two important
areas, and I ask that Members of the Committee support all
three bills and move for their passage out of the Committee.
I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his opening remarks.
[The prepared statement of Chairman Gordon follows:]
Prepared Statement of Chairman Bart Gordon
Good Morning. The Committee will come to order. Pursuant to notice,
the Committee on Science and Technology meets to consider the following
measures:
H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Research Act;
H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization Act of
2007; and,
H.R. 6323, To establish a research, development,
demonstration, and commercial application program to promote
research of appropriate technologies for heavy duty plug-in
hybrid vehicles, and for other purposes.
Before we get started with the markup, we have some Committee
business to attend to. Yesterday Ms. Donna Edwards of Maryland was
appointed to serve on the Committee on Science and Technology.
We currently have an open subcommittee slot on the Energy and
Environment Subcommittee. I would ask unanimous consent that Ms.
Edwards be elected to this subcommittee. Without objection, so ordered.
Congratulations, and welcome to the Committee Ms. Edwards.
We will now proceed with the markup.
Dwindling water supplies across the United States continue to
percolate as a major disaster on our nation's horizon. Despite
tremendous spring rains in some States, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows
that severe drought still grips the American Southeast, California
across the Rocky Mountains, and Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle. In an
effort to protect the country from an impending water scarcity crisis,
the Committee has begun to search out ways for the Federal Government
to spur new technological innovations in water research and
development. Today the Committee will consider two bills aimed at
preventing a future water supply catastrophe.
First, we will take up H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation Research Act introduced by Representative Jim Matheson.
H.R. 3957 establishes a research and development program within the
Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development to
promote water-use efficiency and conservation.
Through this program, EPA will be able to develop and encourage the
adoption of technologies and processes that will achieve greater water-
use efficiency, thus helping to address the water supply shortages. In
addition, H.R. 3957 directs EPA to disseminate information on current
water-use efficient and conservation technologies. This information
will include incentives and impediments to development and
commercialization.
Next, we will consider H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization
Act introduced by my colleague from Texas and our Ranking Member, Mr.
Hall. This bill creates a research, development, and demonstration
program to promote the beneficial reuse of water produced in connection
with oil and gas extraction. In the United States, up to 2.3 billion
gallons per day of produced water is generated. Unfortunately, this
water is not of sufficient quality to be used to meet our many needs
for water. This legislation will provide innovative treatment
technologies that will enable the reuse of this water in an
environmentally responsible way.
Finally, we will consider H.R. 6323, the Heavy Duty Hybrid
Research, Development, and Demonstration Act, introduced by the Ranking
Member of the Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee, Mr.
Sensenbrenner. With skyrocketing fuel prices, energy concerns have been
cemented at the forefront of public awareness.
This committee responded by pursuing an aggressive energy agenda in
110th Congress, and provided a substantial portfolio of bills to the
comprehensive energy package which became law last December. Mr.
Sensenbrenner's bill represents another common sense approach to
chipping away at our energy challenge.
The heavy truck sector accounts for a very large portion of the
Nation's fuel use and transportation-based emissions, and even small
improvements in their efficiency can have a substantial impact. Hybrid
technologies hold the promise of greatly reducing the fuel consumed by
the Nation's truck fleet. Mr. Sensenbrenner and his staff have worked
closely with the Majority to ensure that grants under this program
explore a wide range of hybrid technologies and applications, and he
has made further improvements with the Amendment in the Nature of a
Substitute.
These three bills are important steps in ensuring that we have
adequate water and power supplies across the country, and in pushing
innovation in the heavy truck sector. I want to thank Representative
Matheson, Representative Sensenbrenner, and Ranking Member Hall for
their efforts in these two important areas. I ask that Members of the
Committee support all three bills and move for their passage out of the
Committee.
I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his opening remarks.
Mr. Hall. Mr. Chairman, I thank you for holding the markup
today and for the three bills before us, and because you have
so adequately explained these bills, I can make my remarks very
brief.
I simply would put my entire statement into the record with
unanimous consent and I support the three bills we are marking
up today and hope our colleagues will as well, and I yield back
the balance of my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall
Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this markup today to advance
the three bills before us today. I will keep my opening remarks brief.
H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
introduced by Mr. Matheson would create a water technology research
program at the EPA. Research and development of technologies that
promote greater efficiencies in water use is one of the several
responses we can make to the water shortages many of our constituents
are experiencing.
The second bill, H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization Act of
2008 is one I introduced, and I feel strongly about its potential to
benefit our dual needs of energy and water. This bill would provide
important funding for research, development, demonstration, and
commercial application of technologies to purify and use produced water
from oil and natural gas extraction for human, agricultural, and
industrial purposes.
H.R. 6323, Mr. Sensenbrenner's heavy duty hybrid vehicle bill,
would establish a program at DOE to provide grants to carry out
projects to advance research and development and to demonstrate
advanced technologies for heavy duty plug-in hybrid vehicles. While
heavy duty trucks make up a small portion of the market, the potential
for fuel savings through hybrid technology is substantial.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I support the three bills we're marking up
today and hope that our colleagues will as well. I yield back the
balance of my time.
Chairman Gordon. That was a wonderful statement, Mr. Hall.
Without objection, Members may place statements in the
record at this point.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Richardson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Laura Richardson
Chairman Gordon, Ranking Member Hall, and fellow Members of the
Science and Technology Committee, I rise in strong support of each
piece of legislation that is slated for today's Full Committee markup.
H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
First I would like to thank my colleague Rep. Matheson (D-UT) for
introducing H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Research Act, and for his leadership on this issue. My home State of
California has dealt with its own series of water supply issues in the
past. Likewise, State and local officials in California have pursued
this issue in an aggressive manner. In my district we have a nationally
recognized desalination project. The Long Beach City Council
implemented strict water conservation regulations.
Fact of the matter is Americans consume approximately 26 billion
gallons of water per day, and similar to our consumption of oil, we are
all going to have to learn to conserve.
H.R. 3957 is a sound piece of legislation that designates the
Environmental Protection Agency as the primary federal agency tasked
with the responsibility of improving our nation's water use
conservation technology. Given the EPA's track record on water quality
issues, asking the agency to participate in this endeavor seems like a
reasonable fit.
Thirty years ago President Carter advised the Nation that
conservation was necessary to our quality of life. This legislation
takes a major step in progressing from statements to attainable goals.
I encourage my colleagues to support this bill.
H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization Act of 2007
I want to commend the distinguished Ranking Member, Mr. Hall for
introducing H.R. 2339, the Produced Water Utilization Act of 2007.
We all agree that we must increase our domestic supply of energy.
However this process results in a product called produced water, which
is water that is contaminated by dissolved solids.
Consequently, this water supply is rendered useless for consumption
or irrigation and must be pumped back into the ground to dispose of
safely.
The legislation that Mr. Hall introduced will allow us to safely
utilize produced water thereby creating an additional source of water
for human consumption and irrigation.
This is a sound piece of legislation and I encourage my colleagues
to support this bill.
H.R. 6323, Heavy Duty Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle R&D
I want to acknowledge my colleague Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI) for
introducing H.R. 6323, a bill to promote heavy duty plug-in hybrid R&D.
While we have seen a concerted effort to bring this technology to
passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles are far behind despite their
heavy fuel consumption.
Indeed we heard testimony during the hearing on Mr. Sensenbrenner's
bill that this technology will save each heavy duty truck 1,000 gallons
of fuel per year. With the rising cost of energy and many local and
State governments facing budget constraints, this legislation could
impact their respective departments and reduce the cost of business.
In my home State of California, Pacific Gas & Electric, which
serves northern and central California, has been a leader on this
issue, utilizing this technology in their service trucks. We have to
change the way we consume energy in this country, and the Federal
Government has to take a leading role in this effort.
H.R. 6323 will take us in the right direction, and I encourage my
colleagues to support this bill.
Mr. Chairman I yield back my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Mitchell follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Harry E. Mitchell
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Today we will mark up H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation and Research Act, H.R. 2339, the Produced Water
Utilization Act, and H.R. 6323, the Heavy Hybrid Truck Research,
Development, and Demonstration Act.
Arizona is no stranger to the pressures of rising population and
prolonged drought.
We are one of the fastest growing states, and despite some helpful
precipitation this winter, many portions of our state our still well
into a second decade of drought.
I believe that it is absolutely critical that we address the
growing shortage of our nation's water supply and work to establish
progressive and cost-effective water resource management policies.
H.R. 3957 would help us gain a better understanding of our water
use and shortages by establishing a research and development program
within EPA to promote water efficiency and conservation.
I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.
I yield back.
Chairman Gordon. We will now consider H.R. 3957, the Water
Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act. I recognize the
gentleman from Utah for five minutes to discuss his bill.
Mr. Matheson. Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Dwindling water supplies are an issue across the country.
Thirty-six states are currently or expect to experience
significant water shortages by just 2013. That is why I
introduced H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and Conservation
Act. This bill would establish a research and development
program within the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of
Research and Development to promote water efficiency and
conservation.
Mr. Chairman, tough decisions lie ahead for water managers
who need to balance the needs of agriculture, consumption by
cities, industrial and energy production, transportation,
tourism, wastewater treatment, emergency response and
ecosystems. We are not going to solve this problem overnight,
but H.R. 3957 will provide us with several important tools to
address these issues with technology and innovative thinking.
By encouraging research and development into water-use
efficiency, we can create a path to increase the efficiency of
our nation's water supplies.
H.R. 3957 would expand EPA's scope and involvement in
solving the Nation's water crisis by researching innovations in
water storage and distribution systems as well as behavioral,
social and economic barriers to achieving greater water
efficiency. In addition, the program will research technologies
and processes that enable the collection, treatment and reuse
of rainwater and greywater, wastewater from sinks, baths and
kitchen appliances. I cannot repeat enough how important
federal action on water is to my constituents and to all
Americans in drought-affected areas.
Mr. Chairman, I appreciate your work on this and the work
of the Minority staff as well, and I yield back the balance of
my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Matheson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Jim Matheson
Thank you Mr. Chairman.
Dwindling water supplies are creating concern across the country.
Thirty-six states are currently or expect to experience significant
water shortages by 2013.
That is why I introduced H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation Act. This bill would establish a research and development
program within the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research
and Development (ORD) to promote water efficiency and conservation.
Tough decisions lie ahead for water managers who must balance the
needs of agriculture, consumption by cities, industrial and energy
production, transportation, tourism, wastewater treatment, emergency
response, and ecosystems. We cannot solve this problem overnight. But
H.R. 3957 will provide us with several important tools to address the
coming crisis with technology and innovative thinking. By encouraging
research and development into water-use efficiency, we can create a
path to increase our nation's water supplies.
H.R. 3957 would expand EPA's scope and involvement solving the
Nation's water crisis by researching innovations in water storage and
distribution systems, as well as, behavioral, social, and economic
barriers to achieving greater water efficiency. In addition, the
program will research technologies and processes that enable the
collection, treatment, and reuse of rainwater and greywater, wastewater
from sinks, baths and kitchen appliances. I cannot repeat how important
federal action on water is to my constituents and to all Americans in
drought affected areas. I yield back the balance of my time.
Chairman Gordon. Mr. Hall, do you have some remarks?
Mr. Hall. I do, thank you Mr. Chairman.
In the last few years, the National Academies of Science,
the National Science and Technology Council, and several
agencies in the executive branch have all issued reports
regarding concern about the state of America's water supply,
quality and its use. These many reports have offered hundreds
of recommendations on what Congress can do to alleviate this
growing problem. Although we have acted on a couple of these
recommendations, there is still much to be done to safeguard
our future water supplies.
Research and development of technologies that increase the
efficiency of our daily water use in our homes, our schools,
and our businesses can help minimize waste and conserve this
valuable resource. This legislation establishes a research
program at EPA, focusing their attention on such things as
efficient water-use technologies and water distribution and
storage systems. These are all areas that will be critical to
effectively respond to national water shortages in the decades
to come, and I thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In the last few years, the National
Academies of Science, the National Science and Technology Council and
several agencies in the Executive branch have all issued reports
regarding concern about the state of America's water supply, quality
and use. These many reports have offered hundreds of recommendations on
what Congress can do to alleviate this growing problem. Although we
have acted on a couple of these recommendations, there is still much to
be done to safeguard our future water supplies.
Research and development of technologies that increase the
efficiency of our daily water use in our homes, schools, or businesses
can help minimize waste and conserve this valuable resource. This
legislation establishes a research program at EPA, focusing their
attention on such things as efficient water-use technologies and water
distribution and storage systems. These are all areas that will be
critical to effectively respond to national water shortages in the
decades to come. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I yield back.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Hall.
Does anyone else wish to be recognized? If not, then I ask
unanimous consent that the bill is considered as read and open
to amendments at any point and that Members proceed with the
amendments in order of the roster. Without objection, so
ordered.
The first amendment on the roster is a manager's amendment
offered by the gentleman from Utah, Mr. Matheson. Are you ready
to proceed with your amendment?
Mr. Matheson. Yes, Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the
desk.
Chairman Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3957 offered by Mr. Matheson
of Utah.
Chairman Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with
the reading. Without objection, so ordered.
I recognize the gentleman for five minutes to explain his
amendment.
Mr. Matheson. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I will fortunately
not take all five minutes in describing this to you.
My amendment does three things. First, it makes technical
corrections to the bill. Second, the amendment inserts a
development project section to demonstrate new technologies in
a public setting. And lastly, the amendment adds an
authorization level to the bill.
This amendment is derived from recommendations made at the
Subcommittee legislative hearing that took place last fall
which provided testimony on H.R. 3957 from water experts from
many areas of expertise. Dr. Glen Daigger, Vice President at
CH2MHill, testified to the importance of demonstrations as a
part of the program, stating, ``Demonstrations can pull several
elements together to see how an integrated system can function
at a much higher level.'' Several other witnesses echoed his
comments on the need for such projects in the bill. Mr.
Clerico, the designer of the Solaire Project in New York City,
responded to a question raised about the need for a federal
role in this area. He argued that many water technologies face
a confidence barrier which would be crucial in speeding up
public acceptance of certain water efficiency technologies.
On the subject of funding, witnesses gave a range of
numbers for what would be appropriate. They discussed the fact
that Singapore is investing $330 million in new research on
water technologies in a country of only 4.5 million people. Dr.
Daigger recommended a budget of $100 million a year as an
optimal level for the program. Twenty million dollars was
deemed the lowest amount to produce viable research on the
program. To try to minimize the costs as best as possible but
still produce a program that will offer good data and outcomes,
that is why we proposed the $20 million authorization level in
this bill.
I hope my colleagues will support this manager's amendment.
I will yield back the balance of my time.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Matheson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Jim Matheson
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
My amendment does three things. First, it makes technical
corrections to the bill. Second, the amendment inserts a development
project section to demonstrate new technologies in a public setting.
And lastly, the amendment adds an authorization level to the bill.
This amendment is derived from recommendations made at the
Subcommittee legislative hearing last fall, which provided testimony on
H.R. 3957 from water experts from many areas of expertise.
Dr. Glen Daigger, Vice President at CH2MHill, testified to the
importance of demonstrations as a part of this program stating,
``demonstrations can pull several elements together to see how an
integrated system can function at a much higher level.'' Several other
witnesses echoed his comments on the need for such projects in the
bill. Mr. Clerico, the designer of the Solaire Project in NYC,
responded to a question raised about the new for a federal role in this
area. He argued that many water technologies face a ``confidence
barrier'' which would crucial in speeding up public acceptance of
certain water efficiency technologies.
On the subject of funding, witnesses gave a range of number for
what would be appropriate. They discussed the fact that Singapore is
investing $330 million in new research on water technologies for only
4.5 million people. Dr. Daigger recommended a budget of $100 million a
year as an optimal level for the program. $20 million was deemed the
lowest amount to produce viable research on the subject. So as a loyal
member of the Blue Dog Coalition, I am offering an authorization level
that will produce good research and not waste taxpayer dollars.
I hope that all of my colleagues will support this amendment, and
yield back the balance of my time.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Matheson. I assume this has
been well vetted with the Minority? Mr. Matheson, I assume this
has been----
Mr. Matheson. Yes, Mr. Chairman, and I was remiss in
acknowledging both Majority and Minority staff have been
excellent to work with on this, and it is within the tradition
of this committee that the staffs do work so well together and
I appreciate their help on this amendment.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Matheson.
Is there further discussion on the amendment? If no, the
vote occurs on the amendment. All in favor say aye. Opposed,
no. The ayes have it and the amendment is agreed to.
The second amendment on the roster is an amendment offered
just in time by the gentlelady from Texas, Mrs. Johnson. Are
you ready to proceed?
Ms. Johnson. I am ready.
Chairman Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3957 offered by Ms. Eddie
Bernice Johnson of Texas.
Chairman Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with
the reading. Without objection, so ordered. I recognize the
gentlelady for five minutes to explain her amendment.
Ms. Johnson. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. There is an
uncanny thing that happens every time. I have another committee
at the same time.
Thank you for considering this amendment. I want to commend
my colleague, Mr. Matheson, for his good work to promote water-
use efficiency and conservation research at the Environmental
Protection Agency. This issue is one of great interest to me.
Currently I serve as Chair of the Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment on the Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee. Just this spring, my subcommittee has
studied a variety of issues including protecting America's
coasts, managing our watersheds, understanding commercial
vessels' environmental impacts, preserving water quality to our
Great Lakes, and recommendations for a comprehensive water
strategy to address the Nation's future water supply.
At present, several regions of the country face significant
water resources challenges ranging from droughts in the
Southeast and Southwest to the recent flooding in the Midwest.
Watershed planning management and cutting-edge research can be
important in helping to inform better policy decisions in
addressing complicated water resources challenges. I am very
pleased that the Committee on Science and Technology has taken
interest in research relating to water, and I view water as one
of our nation's most precious natural resources. In some areas
of our nation, such as the Southwest, water supply is very
scarce and it is worth our investment to support research into
how to better conserve, collect, store and treat rainwater. In
other regions of our Nation, flooding is a problem. My district
in Dallas is at risk for flooding from the Trinity River and
several of my colleagues on this committee face similar
threats.
Managing this precious resource is a matter of national
importance, and because of my involvement with the Water
Resources Subcommittee, I suggest an amendment that makes a
number of small changes to Mr. Matheson's bill and these
primarily deal with including water storage as an allowable
research activity, including water conservation as well as
efficiency, providing for a publicly accessible clearinghouse
for the sharing of information related to technology transfer,
and encouraging minority-serving institutions to participate in
research programs.
Mr. Chairman, I want to add that I submitted this amendment
to the Committee on Monday afternoon, well in advance of the
deadline, and I thank my colleagues for their consideration of
this amendment and urge its passage.
The language here I think talks about what it does. It
expands the EPA research program to include technologies and
processes that enable the storage as well as collection,
treatment and reuse of stormwater as well as rainwater and
greywater. It expands the research program focus to include the
behavioral barriers to water conservation, adds watershed
planning as an additional research focus, directs the
establishment of a publicly accessible clearinghouse for
sharing water-use efficiency and conservation technologies,
directs the Assistant Administrator to encourage minority-
serving institutions to apply for such research grants, adds
conservation along with portions for water-use efficiency
throughout the bill. There are various parts that the language
is placed.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Johnson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson
Thank you, Chairman Gordon and Ranking Member Hall, for considering
my amendment to H.R. 3957.
I want to commend my colleague, Mr. Matheson, for his good work to
promote water use efficiency and conservation research at the
Environmental Protection Agency.
This issue is one of great interest to me.
Currently, I serve as Chair of the Subcommittee on Water Resources
and Environment, on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
Just this spring, my subcommittee has studied a variety of issues
including:
- protecting America's coasts;
- managing our watersheds;
- understanding commercial vessels' environmental impacts;
- preserving water quality of our Great Lakes; and
- recommendations for a comprehensive water strategy to
address the Nation's future water supply needs.
At present, several regions of the country face significant water
resource challenges ranging from droughts in the Southeast and
Southwest to the recent flooding in the Midwest.
Watershed planning, management, and cutting-edge research can be
important in helping to inform better policy decisions in addressing
complicated water resources challenges.
I am very pleased that the Committee on Science and Technology has
taken an interest in research relating to water.
I view water as one of our nation's most precious natural
resources.
In some areas of our nation, such as the Southwest, water is very
scarce.
It is worth our investment to support research into how to better
conserve, collect, store and treat rainwater.
In other regions of our nation, flooding is a problem. My district,
in Dallas, is at risk of flooding by the Trinity River, and several of
my colleagues on this committee face similar threats.
Managing this precious resource is a matter of national importance.
Because of my involvement with the Water Resources Subcommittee, I
suggest an amendment that makes a number of small changes to Mr.
Matheson's bill.
These primarily deal with:
- including water storage as an allowable research activity;
- including water conservation as well as efficiency;
- providing for a publicly-accessible clearinghouse for the
sharing of information relating to technology transfer; and
- encouraging Minority Serving Institutions to participate in
the research program.
Mr. Chairman, I want to add that I submitted this amendment to the
Committee on Monday afternoon, well in advance of the deadline.
I thank my colleagues for their consideration of this amendment and
urge its passage.
Thank you Mr. Chairman. I yield back.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Johnson.
Ms. Edwards, you will see that we all serve on different
committees, and Ms. Johnson serves on the Transportation
Committee and brings some of her expertise in that area over
here to help make these bills better, and we appreciate that.
Is there further discussion on the bill? If no, the vote
occurs on the amendment. All in favor of the amendment, say
aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the amendment is agreed
to.
Now, the third amendment on the roster is an amendment
offered by the gentleman from Georgia, Dr. Gingrey. Are you
ready to proceed with your amendment?
Mr. Gingrey. Mr. Chairman, I am.
Chairman Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3957 offered by Mr. Gingrey of
Georgia.
Chairman Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with
the reading. Without objection, so ordered. I recognize the
gentleman for five minutes to explain the amendment.
Mr. Gingrey. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I first want to
commend my colleague from Utah, Mr. Matheson, for introducing
this legislation to address ways in which the Environmental
Protection Agency can use its Office of Research and
Development to promote technologies that increase water
efficiency and conservation by collection, treatment and reuse
of rainwater and greywater and research on water storage.
Mr. Chairman, over the past year, my home State of Georgia
and specifically, my district, has experienced significant and
historic drought conditions that have brought to the forefront
what the future may hold for our local water supply. In
addition to the drought conditions in my district in northwest
Georgia, as my colleague from Texas said, a number of other
states are facing similar challenges. Over the next five years,
more than half of the states in our country anticipate some
sort of water shortage that will wreak havoc on our environment
as well as on our economy. I am encouraged that this
legislation puts in place some methods to adopt emerging
technologies to help us make better use of one of our most
precious resources, of course, that is water. However, I do
have some concerns that H.R. 3957 creates a program within the
EPA's jurisdiction but without giving it proper direction about
how to implement a strategic research plan to make this program
successful.
So the amendment that I am offering today will work to
modify this legislation by actually requiring the EPA to
develop a coordinated plan within the agency's Office of
Research and Development for research on water-use efficiency
and conservation. This amendment will also require the EPA to
provide reports to Congress on how the goals are met on water-
use efficiency, water conservation and expanded water supply,
all of which are important not only in northwest Georgia but
across the country. This amendment also recognizes potential
research changes and allows the EPA flexibility to revise and
amend as needed the operating plan to reflect scientific
findings and national research priorities.
Mr. Chairman, my goal with this amendment is to help
provide the EPA with a more honed directive so the agency can
hit the ground running to utilize new technologies to increase
our water efficiency. I have worked very closely with the
Majority to ensure that this amendment improves H.R. 3957
without adding overly cumbersome bureaucracy to the EPA.
Finally, I would like to commend my colleagues for working
on this important issue in a bipartisan manner and I am pleased
that the Majority has been willing to work with me to improve
this legislation. I urge all of my colleagues to support this
amendment as well as the underlying bill, and I yield back.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Dr. Gingrey. I know that the
drought really has had an impact in Georgia. This is an
important bill, and you have made it better, and I think
probably good enough that we won't have to put that pipe in the
Tennessee River now once this gets implemented.
Mr. Gingrey. Well, Mr. Chairman, if you will yield back
now, I wouldn't go as far as to say that.
Chairman Gordon. Is there further discussion on the
amendment? If no, the vote occurs on the amendment. All in
favor, say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it and the amendment
is agreed to.
The fourth amendment on the roster is an amendment offered
by the gentlelady from Arizona. Are you ready to proceed with
your amendment?
Ms. Giffords. Yes, Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
The Clerk. Amendment to H.R. 3957 offered by Ms. Giffords
of Arizona.
Chairman Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with
the reading. Without objection, so ordered. I recognize the
gentlelady for five minutes to explain her amendment.
Ms. Giffords. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Ranking
Member Hall as well.
Back in May when this committee held a hearing on water
supply challenges for the 21st century, one of the expert
witnesses here was Dr. Steven Parker, Director of Water Science
and Technology Board of the National Research Council. It seems
like it was a long time ago, but when we think about water
issues, really just very, very recently. Committee Members may
recall that in his testimony, Dr. Parker discussed some recent
work that was being undertaken by the Water Science and
Technology Board on water supply and water management. He also
discussed some major challenges facing State and local
governments in providing adequate water supplies to meet our
society's competing and growing needs. It is interesting
hearing from Mr. Gingrey what he has experienced in his home
State of Georgia. I hail from Arizona, which is the second
fasting growing state. It is a desert state, record droughts,
record population growth, so we are really challenged out in
the Southwest as well. Now, as part of his response to Members'
questions following the hearing, Dr. Parker conveyed his
recommendations for a study of water management practices in
use in the United States and around the globe. The purpose
would be to identify effective practices that could be
implemented or implemented more widely in the United States.
This amendment, Mr. Chairman, would authorize such a study by
the National Academies in coordination with the EPA. The study
would examine innovative systemic approaches to managing water
supply, wastewater and stormwater in urban areas and
surrounding communities. But a special emphasis will be placed
on studying the interrelationship of water supplies with other
major systems such as energy and transportation. In addition to
looking at practices that are already in place, both here and
abroad, the study would identify priority research and
development needs going forward. The study would also assess
barriers to implementation of new practices.
Mr. Chairman, the study would emphasize both the soft-path
and the low-impact approaches to water management, and these
terms I think we are going to be hearing more about in the
future. The term ``soft path'' refers to a framework for
thinking about how to integrate different water supplies, for
example, treatment, supply, delivery, to increase overall
efficiency of use. Soft-path approaches emphasize using the
natural capacities of ecosystems to provide filtration services
and clean water. The term ``low impact'' in this context refers
to technologies and practices for gathering and using the water
that falls on any given site as rain. Together, both these
terms describe the cutting edge in thinking about water
management. In the 20th century, water management solutions are
often characterized by expensive capital investment projects to
transport water great distances and treat it in large
centralized facilities. By contrast, 21st century solutions are
much more likely to employ soft-path and low-impact approaches.
The purpose of this study is to produce a report that will
evaluate challenges and opportunities and then recommend
innovative, integrated solutions. The report will serve as a
practical reference for planners, scientists, engineers, non-
governmental organizations and regulators concerned with water
management.
I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and with
that, I yield back my time.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Giffords follows:]
Prepared Statement of Representative Gabrielle Giffords
Back in May, when the Committee held a hearing on Water Supply
Challenges for the 21st century, one of the expert witnesses was Dr.
Stephen Parker, Director of the Water Science and Technology Board of
the National Research Council.
Committee Members may recall that in his testimony, Dr. Parker
discussed recent work undertaken by the Water Science and Technology
Board on water supply and water management. He also discussed major
challenges facing states and local governments in providing adequate
water supplies to meet society's competing and growing needs.
As part of his response to Member questions following the hearing,
Dr. Parker conveyed his recommendation for a study of water management
practices in use in the U.S. and around the world. The purpose would be
to identify effective practices that could be implemented--or
implemented more widely--in the United States. My amendment would
authorize such a study.
The study would examine innovative, systematic approaches to
managing water supply, wastewater, and storm water in urban areas and
surrounding communities. A special emphasis would be placed on studying
the inter-relationship of water systems with other major systems such
as energy and transportation. In addition to looking at practices that
are already in place, both here and abroad, the study would identify
priority research and development needs going forward. The study would
also assess barriers to implementation of new practices.
The study would emphasize ``soft path'' and ``low impact''
approaches to water management. The term ``soft path'' refers to a
framework for thinking about how to integrate different water systems
(for example, supply, treatment, etc.) and increase overall efficiency
of use. Soft path approaches emphasize using the natural capacities of
ecosystems to provide filtration services and clean water.
The term ``low impact,'' in this context, refers to technologies
and practices for gathering and using the water that falls on any given
site as rain.
Together, these terms describe the cutting edge in thinking about
water management. In the 20th century water management solutions were
often characterized by expensive capital investment projects to
transport water great distances and treat it in large, centralized
facilities. By contrast, 21st century solutions are much more likely to
employ ``soft path'' and ``low impact'' approaches.
The purpose of this study is to produce a report that will evaluate
challenges and opportunities and then and recommend innovative,
integrated solutions. The report will serve as a practical reference
for planners, scientists, engineers, non-governmental organizations,
and regulators concerned with water management. I urge my colleagues to
support this amendment.
With that, I yield back.
Chairman Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Giffords, for the
thoughtful amendment.
Ms. Edwards, you will soon find that whether we are talking
about water or pumpkins, somehow Ms. Giffords is able to work
in Arizona into those.
Is there any further discussion on the amendment? If no,
the vote occurs on the amendment. All in favor, say aye. Those
opposed, no. The ayes have it. The amendment is agreed to.
Are there any other amendments? If no, then the vote on the
bill, H.R. 3957 as amended----
Mr. Rohrabacher. Mr. Chairman?
Chairman Gordon. Oh, excuse me. Mr. Rohrabacher.
Mr. Rohrabacher. If I could strike the last word?
Chairman Gordon. Certainly. The gentleman is recognized for
five minutes.
Mr. Rohrabacher. Let me just note that in our area, Long
Beach, I was able to secure some funds that were necessary for
a research and development program for a local water district.
Chairman Gordon. Was that an earmark?
Mr. Rohrabacher. It was an earmark. I, however, have not
been one of the Republicans that are known for attacking
earmarks, so I say so proudly, and let me just note, this could
be an example of why earmarks are justified in most cases. The
earmark I was able to secure for our local water district, this
is before my colleague, Laura Richardson, joined us, but in
cooperation with her predecessor, the local water district was
able to do a research project that resulted in a desalinization
system that uses 20 to 25 percent less energy to accomplish the
same amount of desalinization. So the research that we are
talking about in bills like this can have some very, very
positive impacts. I just thought that I would put that on the
record and suggest that what we are doing today could well, and
is intended to, have some actual measurable results and public
benefit. Thank you very much.
Chairman Gordon. If the gentleman will yield?
Mr. Rohrabacher. Yes.
Chairman Gordon. Ms. Richardson has discussed this with me
today. She is very proud of what is going on out there. Water,
as I mentioned earlier, is a very, very important issue for
this country and the world. There are going to be wars fought
over water. You know, water is going to become more and more
expensive. If my father knew, you know, that I was paying more
for a thing of water than for a soft drink or a beer, you know,
he would never believe that. As Ralph Hall says, California is
divided by water. We have got agriculture versus communities.
If you will pardon me, we just put our toe in this. I think we
have gotten off to a good start. I was just thinking during
this collaboration that hopefully over August or between the
time we get ready to go, I would like to have a little think-
tank session with the Minority and Majority staff and Members
to talk about where we want to take this next year. We need to
be the leader. Eddie Bernice, she is not here now, but she is
doing some things on transportation. This is a very important
issue and we need to get out in front of it, and we intend to.
Mr. Rohrabacher. As I said, Mr. Chairman, reclaiming my
time, that already I have seen in our local area that a
research and development project actually was able to make some
very positive changes and show a great reward for the amount of
money that was put into the research project, so I thank you
very much, Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Gordon. Certainly.
Mr. Hall. Mr. Chairman?
Chairman Gordon. Yes, Mr. Hall.
Mr. Hall. I pledge next year as Chairman to be as kind to
you as you have been to me.
Chairman Gordon. I am sure you will. All right. So now H.R.
3957 as amended. All those in favor will say aye. All those
opposed, no. In the opinion of the Chair, the ayes have it. I
now recognize Mr. Matheson to offer a motion.
Mr. Matheson. Mr. Chairman, I move that the Committee
favorably report H.R. 3957 as amended to the House with the
recommendation that the bill do pass. Furthermore, I move that
staff be instructed to prepare the legislative report and make
necessary technical and conforming changes and that the
Chairman take all necessary steps to bring the bill before the
House for consideration.
Chairman Gordon. The question is on the motion to report
the bill favorably. Those in favor of the motion will signify
by saying aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the bill is
favorably reported. Without objection, the motion to reconsider
is laid up on the table. Members will have two subsequent
calendar days in which to submit supplemental Minority or
additional views on the measure ending Monday, July 21 at 9
a.m.
I move pursuant to clause 1 of rule 22 of the Rules of the
House of Representatives that the Committee authorize the
Chairman to offer such motions as may be necessary in the House
to adopt and pass H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency,
Conservation and Research Act as amended. Without objection, so
ordered.
Before we adjourn, let me just say to everyone, this
appears to be our last markup for this year and this session.
Things, you know, went smoothly today, but the reason for that
was that there was lots of collaboration. I thank all of you
for your presence. It is important for you to be here. I hope
that one thing that we can do as we go into maybe September
when we are not going to be having any markups is have the
opportunity for us to sit down as a committee informally and
talk about what we want to do next year, and I think we had a
good discussion today. We want to find out what is important to
your districts, what is important to the country, and we will
try to get an agenda that either we will pass off to Mr. Hall
or we will keep it here, whichever way it might be, but one way
or the other, we want to work together, and I very, very
sincerely thank everyone for a very productive year. I hope
that you will all go back to your press secretaries and talk at
home about these three bills that you got out today. There are
more good ones.
Thank you very much, and we are adjourned.
[Whereupon, at 10:59 a.m., the Committee was adjourned.]
Appendix:
----------
H.R. 3957, Section-by-Section Analysis, Amendment Roster
Section-by-Section Analysis of H.R. 3957,
Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act
Purpose: To increase research, development, education, and
technology transfer activities related to water use efficiency and
conservation technologies and practices at the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
Section 1: Short Title
The ``Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act''.
Section 2: Findings
Section 2 includes the Congressional findings and defines the need
for expanding the scope of research and development conducted by the
Environmental Protection agency to include water use efficiency and
conservation to address the problems of increasing water shortages
across the country.
Section 3: Research Program
Section 3 directs the Assistant Administrator to establish a
research, development, and demonstration program within the
Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development to
promote water use efficiency and conservation. The bill provides
examples of several areas the program should address including water
storage and distribution systems; and behavioral, social, and economic
barriers to achieving greater water use efficiency. In addition, the
bill states the program should research technologies and processes that
enable the collection, treatment, and reuse of rainwater and greywater.
The specific projects selected for funding through the program should
reflect the needs identified by local and State water managers.
Section 4: Technology Transfer
Section 4 directs the Assistant Administrator to collect and
disseminate information on current water use efficient and conservation
technologies and practices to facilitate their adoption. This
information should include incentives and impediments to development
and commercialization, best practices, and anticipated increases in
water use efficiency resulting from the implementation of these
processes.
Section 5: Report
Section 5 directs the Assistant Administrator to report to Congress
on the progress being made by the Environmental Protection Agency with
regard to the research projects initiated, and the outreach and
communication activities conducted through the program.
Section 6: Authorization of Appropriations
Section 6 provides a five-year authorization of the program with
such sums as necessary to carry out the program.
XXIII. EXCHANGE OF LETTERS
House of Representatives,
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
Washington, DC, July 22, 2008.
Hon. Bart Gordon,
Chairman, Committee on Science and Technology,
House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Gordon: I write to you regarding H.R. 3957,
the ``Water Use Efficiency and Conservation Research Act.''
This legislation authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency
to establish a research and development program to promote
water use efficiency and conservation technologies and
practices.
H.R. 3957 contains provisions that fall within the
jurisdiction of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. I recognize and appreciate your desire to bring
this legislation before the House in an expeditious manner and,
accordingly, I will not seek a sequential referral of the bill.
However, I agree to waive consideration of this bill with the
mutual understanding that my decision to forego a sequential
referral of the bill does not waive, reduce, or otherwise
affect the jurisdiction of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure over H.R. 3957.
Further, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
reserves the right to seek the appointment of conferees during
any House-Senate conference convened on this legislation on
provisions of the bill that are within the Committee's
jurisdiction. I ask for your commitment to support any request
by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for the
appointment of conferees on H.R. 3957 or similar legislation.
Please place a copy of this letter and your response
acknowledging the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure's jurisdictional interest in the Committee
Report on H.R. 3957 and in the Congressional Record during
consideration of the measure on the House Floor.
I look forward to working with you as we prepare to pass
this important legislation,
Sincerely,
James L. Oberstar,
Chairman.
------
House of Representatives,
Committee on Science and Technology,
Washington, DC, July 22, 2008.
Hon. James L. Oberstar,
Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Oberstar: Thank you for your July 22, 2008
letter regarding H.R. 3957, the Water Use Efficiency and
Conservation Research Act. Your support for this legislation
and your assistance in ensuring its timely consideration are
greatly appreciated.
I agree that provisions in the bill are of jurisdictional
interest to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
I acknowledge that by forgoing a sequential referral, your
Committee is not relinquishing its jurisdiction and I will
fully support your request to be represented in a House-Senate
conference on those provisions over which the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure has jurisdiction in H.R.
3957. A copy of our letters will be placed in the Committee
Report on H.R. 3957 and in the Congressional Record during
consideration of the bill on the House floor.
I value your cooperation and look forward to working with
you as we move ahead with this important legislation.
Sincerely,
Bart Gordon,
Chairman.