House Passes Energy And Water Research Bill

Press Release

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, today supported H.R. 3598, the Energy and Water Research Integration Act, legislation to ensure water and energy usage are considered in existing U.S. Department of Energy research programs. Included in the bill were two amendments offered by Smith during committee consideration of the bill.

The overall legislation authorizes $65 million to advance energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices which would minimize freshwater withdrawal and consumption, increase water use efficiency, and utilize nontraditional water sources in energy production.

Smith's first amendment would protect state, local and tribal governments from increased financial burden due to restrictions on their water usage by the federal government. His second amendment makes it clear H.R. 3598 would not be the basis for any new federal regulations regarding state, local, or tribal use of water.

"Nebraska is a leader in agriculture and biofuels - both of which rely on water resources. Our nation's producers continue to face a number of challenges and ensuring the reliability of our energy and water supplies is absolutely necessary. My amendments protect water rights and empower local communities - I am pleased to see them included in this measure," Smith said.

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