Bill > S3317

This bill requires the Comptroller General (the 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 the EPA's Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) initiative in detail, including how the agency identifies and selects technical assistance providers, the regions and populations served, and the types of support offered to states, tribal governments, local governments, and non-governmental organizations. The Comptroller General must analyze the effectiveness of these programs, including their ability to support economically distressed communities, avoid duplication of services, and help communities access water infrastructure programs. The review will also evaluate how the EPA coordinates with other federal agencies and supports communities in implementing cost-effective water treatment technologies. Upon completing the review, the Comptroller General will submit a report to the EPA and relevant congressional committees with findings and recommendations. The EPA will then be required to submit an annual plan for the next five years detailing how it plans to implement the GAO's recommendations, thereby creating a systematic approach to improving water-related technical assistance programs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3317/all-info