Desalination funding would run 15 years, with no dollar cap on federal share

What does this do?

The bill would extend and update two existing laws, from 1996 and 2016, so federal desalination programs can continue. Federal support for large construction projects would last 15 years from the date the bill becomes law. It would also create a new competitive grant program to test new desalination technology.

Who does it affect?

Water agencies, Tribes, and local governments in western states that want to build or test desalination would be most directly affected, along with companies and researchers who develop the technology. Water customers in those areas could be affected over time if projects are built.

Why does it matter?

Projects in western "Reclamation States," or ones that mainly benefit water users there, would qualify for federal help if a state, Tribe, or water agency builds and runs them, or if at least 25 percent of the funding comes from state or local public sources. Each system tested under the new grants would need a detailed cost analysis estimating what the water would cost at full scale.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Federal share up to 25% of project cost
• No dollar limit on federal share
• 15 years of construction support