Summary of HR 1382: San Francisco Bay Restoration Act

Bill Number: HR 1382

Introduced: February 14, 2025

Status: Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Discharged

Primary Sponsor: Jared Huffman

Cosponsors: Eric Swalwell, Ro Khanna, Nancy Pelosi, Jimmy Panetta, Mark DeSaulnier, Lateefah Simon, Kevin Mullin, John Garamendi

Purpose and Intent

HR 1382 aims to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to enhance the restoration efforts for San Francisco Bay. The bill seeks to provide funding and support for projects that improve water quality and restore the ecological health of the Bay, which is crucial for both environmental sustainability and local communities.

Key Provisions

1. Funding Mechanisms:

   • The bill allows the Director to provide funding through various means, including cooperative agreements, grants, and contracts, to federal, state, and local agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations and other entities involved in restoration efforts.

2. Funding Limits:

   • Federal funding for non-federal entities is capped at 75% of the total project cost. This ensures that at least 25% of project funding comes from non-federal sources.

3. Eligibility Restrictions:

   • Non-federal entities that are based in or have partnerships with "foreign countries of concern" (as defined in 42 U.S.C. 19237) are ineligible for federal funding under this section. This provision aims to ensure that federal resources are allocated to domestic entities.

4. Interagency Agreements:

   • Federal agencies can utilize funds provided under interagency agreements to carry out activities related to the restoration of San Francisco Bay.

Impact

• Beneficiaries: The bill is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including local governments, environmental organizations, and the communities surrounding San Francisco Bay. Improved water quality and ecological restoration will have positive effects on local wildlife and public health.

• Environmental Significance: By focusing on the restoration of San Francisco Bay, the bill addresses critical environmental challenges, including pollution and habitat degradation, which are vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting local economies reliant on the Bay's resources.

Legislative Timeline

• February 14, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
• February 15, 2025: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.
• February 26, 2025: Subcommittee discharged; the bill was ordered to be reported (amended) with a vote of 40 - 13.

Conclusion

HR 1382 represents a significant legislative effort to secure funding and support for the restoration of San Francisco Bay. By establishing clear funding guidelines and eligibility criteria, the bill aims to enhance collaboration among various stakeholders while ensuring that federal resources are used effectively to address pressing environmental issues.