What This Bill Does
S. 3693, the Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act, would extend the authorization for a federal competitive grant program for large-scale water recycling and reuse from 5 years to 10 years. The bill amends section 40905(k) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, changing the time period in law from "5 years" to "10 years." It would mainly affect states, local water agencies, utilities, and other entities that seek federal grants for recycling and reusing water. The bill does not create a new program or set a new dollar amount; it lengthens the existing authorization window for the current grant program.
- Extends the grant authorization period in section 40905(k) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act from 5 years to 10 years.
- Applies to a competitive grant program for large-scale water recycling and reuse.
- Does not set a new dollar amount; it changes the length of the authorization.
- Keeps the existing federal program available for longer planning and project development.
Who This Bill Affects
For people in communities that rely on federal water infrastructure funding, this bill could make it easier to pursue large-scale recycling and reuse projects over a longer period. If your local water agency is planning a project under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s grant program, the change from a 5-year to a 10-year authorization window could improve planning certainty and keep the program open longer for applications. For most individuals, the effect is indirect: the bill does not change household water bills or create a direct benefit payment, but it may support future water-supply reliability in affected regions.
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- Water utilities and local water agencies A longer authorization window gives agencies more certainty to plan multi-year recycling projects, line up financing, and compete for federal grants. Large water reuse projects often take years to permit and build, so a 10-year authorization better matches the project timeline.
- Western and drought-affected communities Communities facing water shortages may see recycled water as a practical way to stretch supplies and reduce dependence on strained rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater. Extending the program helps keep a federal tool available for resilience projects.
- Engineering and construction firms Longer-lived grant programs can support a steadier pipeline of infrastructure work. Firms that design and build treatment and reuse systems benefit when local sponsors have more time and confidence to move projects forward.
- Fiscal conservatives They may argue that extending a federal authorization for another five years expands Washington’s role in local water decisions and could encourage continued federal spending commitments. Some may prefer shorter authorizations or more limited federal involvement.
- Taxpayers concerned about program overlap Some critics may question whether an existing infrastructure law already provides enough support and whether extending the authorization is necessary. They may prefer that states and localities fund recycling projects without a longer federal grant window.
- Water users favoring other infrastructure priorities Opponents may argue that federal resources should go to other water needs, such as drinking water treatment, aging pipes, or flood control, rather than a recycling-specific grant program. They may see the extension as narrowing attention to one type of project.
Key Implications
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““striking ‘5 years’ and inserting ‘10 years’””
This is the core policy change: the existing grant authorization lasts longer. In practice, it gives the program a longer legal runway, which can matter for projects that need many years of planning and construction.
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““competitive grant program for large-scale water recycling and reuse””
The money, if appropriated, would go through competition rather than automatic distribution. That means local agencies and project sponsors must apply and meet federal criteria to receive support.
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““Section 40905(k) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act””
The bill does not create a new standalone program; it amends an existing infrastructure-law provision. That ties the measure to a broader federal water-infrastructure framework already on the books.
Latest Status
June 10, 2026
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
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