H.R. 2925 Introduced by Hinojosa to Provide Drought Preparedness and Planning Assistance

Washington, DC (June 21, 2006) – Today, the Committee on House Resources in the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation introduced in June 2005 by Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (TX-15).  H.R. 2925, amends the Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act of 1991 to preserve drought assistance programs in America. 

The legislation will extend the Act through September 30, 2010 and was co-sponsored by 10 other members of Congress.

“Droughts have the potential to ravage and decimate communities,” said Hinojosa.  “We need to take the necessary precautions and steps to develop plans for preventing the fall-out from drought conditions, and minimize their effects.  The Resources Committee recognized that we must prevent and alleviate drought conditions, and I thank them for their commitment to helping America’s rural communities, farmers and ranchers.”

The Reclamation States Drought Assistance Act of 1991 authorizes the Bureau of Reclamation to undertake activities that will minimize, or can be expected to have an effect in minimizing losses and damages resulting from drought conditions.  These include:  construction of temporary facilities; conservation measures that will or can minimize losses and damages resulting from drought; the preparation of drought contingency plans for the prevention of the effects from future droughts.  Emergency drought measures can include activities such as water hauling, temporary construction, and assistance with well-drilling.

This legislation is endorsed by the Western States Water Council, an organization representing 18 states.  Its members are appointed by their respective governors to address a broad range of water policy issues affecting the West. 

A companion bill has was introduced in the United States Senate by Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR) and passed in December 2005. 

The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the measure as early as next week.