Floor Situation

On Thursday, April 23, 2009, H.R. 1145 is expected to be considered on the floor under a structured rule, making in order a number of amendments and allowing one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. A complete summary of the amendments made in order under the rule will be distributed when the rule is made available. This legislation was introduced by Representative Bart Gordon (D-TN) on February 24, 2009. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology, which held a mark-up and reported the bill, as amended, by voice vote on March 26, 2009.

Bill Summary

H.R. 1145 establishes an interagency committee to be chaired by the Office of Science and technology Policy (OSTP) to improve the federal government's role in designating and implementing water research, development, demonstration, data collection and dissemination, education, and technology transfer. This interagency committee would include a representative from each agency that conducts research related to water or has authority over resources that affect water supply, as well as a representative from the Office of Management and Budget.

The bill provides instructions for the committee, including the following:

• Develop a National Water Research and Assessment Plan;
• Coordinate all federal research, development, demonstration, data collection and dissemination, education, and technology transfer activities pertaining to water;
• Encourage cooperation among federal agencies with respect to water-related research, development, and technological innovation activities to avoid duplication of effort and to ensure optimal use of resources and expertise; and
• Facilitate technology transfer, communication, and opportunities for information exchange with non-governmental organizations, State and local governments, industry, and other members of the stakeholder community.

The bill would also require that a report be submitted to Congress that describes the activities and results of the Initiative and outlines the objectives for the next fiscal year. The report shall include detailed information on all programs and activities involved in the Initiative, including an analysis of progress towards achieving the outcomes listed in section.

Cost

According to CBO, H.R. 1145 will cost the federal government $8 million from FY 2010 to FY 2014.