H.R.1265 - To amend the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to expand eligibility for certain wastewater infrastructure grants, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1265 proposes amendments to the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, specifically targeting Section 302, which concerns wastewater infrastructure grants. The bill aims to broaden the eligibility criteria for these grants. It seeks to include 'States' alongside municipalities and Indian Tribes as eligible recipients for wastewater infrastructure and trash-free waters grants.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to expand the pool of potential applicants for wastewater infrastructure grants. This expansion could lead to increased investment in wastewater treatment and related projects at the state level. Ultimately, this could result in cleaner waterways and reduced marine debris.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to funding for states to improve wastewater infrastructure.
- Potential for more comprehensive and effective projects addressing water pollution.
- Possible reduction in the amount of trash and pollutants entering waterways.
- Improved environmental quality and public health due to better wastewater management.
- Stimulation of local economies through infrastructure projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased competition for limited grant funds, potentially disadvantaging smaller municipalities or Indian Tribes.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays or inefficiencies in the grant application and approval process.
- Possible shift in focus away from local projects towards larger state-level initiatives.
- Risk of funds being used for projects that are not the most effective or environmentally sound.
- The bill itself does not guarantee improved outcomes; effective implementation is crucial.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve environmental quality and public health through infrastructure improvements. Specifically, the preamble states the goal to "promote the general Welfare". Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).