Senate Substitute for HB 2302 by Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources - Making appropriations for the state treasurer for fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024, providing for a transfer of moneys from the state general fund to the state water plan fund for fiscal year 2024, establishing the water technical assistance fund and the water projects grant fund for water-related infrastructure projects.
Impact
The bill introduces significant changes to the funding and administration of water-related initiatives in Kansas. By allocating $35 million from the state general fund to the state water plan fund annually for fiscal years 2024 to 2027, the bill sets a clear direction for sustainable funding in water management. The introduction of the water technical assistance fund will support municipalities in accessing technical expertise and resources necessary for developing effective water infrastructure projects. As such, the bill promotes a collaborative approach between the state and local governments in tackling water issues.
Summary
House Bill 2302 proposes to make appropriations for the state treasurer for fiscal years 2023 and 2024, specifically relating to the funding and management of water infrastructure in Kansas. The bill establishes the water technical assistance fund and the water projects grant fund to facilitate grants for water-related projects. It aims to improve the infrastructure for water supply and management, responding to the critical needs of municipalities, especially those with smaller populations. The legislation reflects a significant focus on state-funded support for water projects, enhancing the state's approach toward water resource management.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 2302 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers, given its passage with a vote of 122 to 1 in the House. The sentiment reflects a collective recognition of the importance of addressing water infrastructure needs, especially in rural and underserved areas. Despite this overwhelming support, concerns may arise regarding the long-term sustainability of the funding and the ability of smaller municipalities to effectively manage and utilize the grants, indicating a nuanced aspect of the bill's reception.
Contention
While the bill has garnered broad support, there are contingencies related to the allocation of funds and the management of the new grant programs. Some stakeholders may contend that focusing resources on smaller municipalities could potentially overlook larger urban areas with significant water infrastructure issues. Additionally, questions about the efficacy of the Kansas water office in administering these funds may arise, prompting a need for stringent oversight and accountability measures as the bill is implemented.
Establishing the state conservation fund and transferring $2,500,000 to such fund and providing for the enhanced transfer of moneys from the state general fund to the state water plan fund and from the state water plan fund to the water technical assistance fund and the water project grant fund.
Increasing the amount of moneys transferred from the state general fund to the state water plan fund and from the state water plan fund to the water technical assistance fund and the water project grant fund.
Substitute for SB 315 by Committee on Ways and Means - Making and concerning supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 and appropriations for fiscal years 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030 for various state agencies, authorizing certain capital improvement projects and fees, authorizing certain transfers.
Substitute for HB 2434 by Committee on Appropriations - Making and concerning supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 and appropriations for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 for various state agencies, authorizing certain capital improvement projects and fees, authorizing certain transfers.
Making and concerning certain supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 and appropriations for fiscal years 2027, 2028 and 2029 for various state agencies.
Making and concerning certain supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 and appropriations for fiscal years 2027, 2028 and 2029 for various state agencies.
Making and concerning supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026 and appropriations for fiscal years 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030 for various state agencies, authorizing certain capital improvement projects and fees, authorizing certain transfers.
Making and concerning certain supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2025 and appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 for various state agencies.
Making and concerning certain supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2025 and appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 for various state agencies.
Senate Substitute for HB 2172 by Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources - Establishing the water program task force to evaluate the state's water program and funding for such program and requiring the task force to establish a water planning work group and submit a report the legislature and the governor.
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.
Requires DEP and owners of certain reservoirs to implement certain flood control measures; authorizes Office of Emergency Management to order lowering of reservoirs levels in response to severe weather events.