Bill > HR3427

This bill requires the Comptroller General (head of the Government Accountability Office or GAO) to conduct a comprehensive review of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) technical assistance programs related to clean water infrastructure within one year of the bill's enactment. The review will examine how the EPA's Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) initiative identifies and partners with technical assistance providers, including analyzing the criteria for selecting providers, their coordination with state and tribal partners, and how they match providers to community needs. The review must detail the regions and populations served, describe the types of assistance provided, list communities that received support, and assess how these programs help communities access water infrastructure resources. The bill also requires the GAO to evaluate any potential duplication of technical assistance programs, the capacity-building impact on communities, and the effectiveness of assistance in addressing water quality challenges. After completing the review, the Comptroller General must submit a report to congressional committees with findings and recommendations. Additionally, the EPA Administrator must submit an annual compliance plan for five years detailing actions taken in response to the GAO's recommendations. The term "covered technical assistance" is specifically defined as EPA technical assistance authorities, initiatives, or programs related to clean water infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3427/all-info