H.R.3817 - Toxic Health Threat Warning Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3817, the Toxic Health Threat Warning Act of 2025, mandates that the Army Corps of Engineers must test water released from flood risk management structures for cyanotoxins. If cyanotoxin levels exceed 8 parts per billion, the Corps must notify the public and affected governments about the contamination and potential health effects. The bill aims to protect communities from exposure to harmful toxins in water releases.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to increased monitoring and transparency regarding water quality from flood control structures. It will also empower communities to take necessary precautions when potentially contaminated water is released. The Act will require the Corps of Engineers to allocate resources for testing and notification procedures.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced public health protection through early warnings about cyanotoxin contamination.
- Increased transparency and accountability from the Army Corps of Engineers.
- Empowered communities to make informed decisions about water usage and potential health risks.
- Potential for improved inter-agency cooperation between federal, state, and tribal governments.
- Reduction in potential healthcare costs associated with cyanotoxin exposure.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased operational costs for the Army Corps of Engineers due to testing and notification requirements.
- Possible delays in water releases due to testing procedures.
- Risk of over-reporting or false positives, leading to unnecessary public alarm.
- Potential for legal challenges related to the determination of affected governments or the accuracy of testing methods.
- Limited scope, focusing only on cyanotoxins and flood risk management structures, potentially overlooking other sources of contamination.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect public health. While the Constitution does not explicitly address environmental regulations, the implied powers doctrine allows Congress to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, such as regulating interstate waterways and providing for the common defense, which can include flood control. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but this bill does not appear to infringe on state authority, as it focuses on federal actions.
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).