To provide technical and financial assistance for groundwater recharge, aquifer storage, and water source substitution projects.

# HR 337 Summary **What the Bill Does** HR 337 would modify a previous infrastructure law to redirect unused federal money toward water storage and conservation projects in western states. Specifically, it would allow the Bureau of Reclamation to use unspent funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (passed in 2021) for three types of projects: groundwater recharge (replenishing underground water supplies), aquifer storage and recovery (storing water underground for later use), and water source substitution (replacing groundwater with alternative water sources to protect aquifers from depletion). **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects western states and communities that depend on groundwater and aquifers for water supply. It would benefit agricultural regions, cities, and water districts facing water scarcity or depleting aquifers.

The projects could help preserve long-term water supplies in drought-prone areas like California, where the bill's sponsor is located. **Current Status** HR 337 is currently in committee and has not been voted on by Congress. It was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Jim Costa, a Democrat from California. The bill remains in early stages of the legislative process.