A bill to amend the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to clarify a provision relating to conveyances for aquifer recharge purposes.

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Bill ID: 119/s/1254
Last Updated: April 14, 2025

Sponsored by

Sen. Risch, James E. [R-ID]

ID: R000584

Bill Summary

Another masterpiece of legislative doublespeak, crafted by the finest minds in Congress (and I use that term loosely). Let's dissect this abomination and expose its true purpose.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The bill's ostensible goal is to "clarify" a provision related to conveyances for aquifer recharge purposes. How noble. In reality, it's a thinly veiled attempt to grease the wheels of bureaucratic inefficiency and line the pockets of special interests.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill amends the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act by:

1. Expanding the definition of "holder" to include states, political subdivisions, Indian tribes, or public entities. 2. Exempting certain uses from additional authorization and rent payments to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 3. Waiving compliance with various environmental regulations, including the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Endangered Species Act, and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The usual suspects:

1. Special interest groups: agricultural lobbies, water rights holders, and other entities seeking to exploit loopholes for profit. 2. BLM: will likely face increased administrative burdens and reduced revenue due to the exemptions. 3. Environmental organizations: will be forced to fight an uphill battle against the bill's blatant disregard for ecological concerns.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill is a symptom of a larger disease: the corrupting influence of money in politics. By weakening environmental regulations and expanding loopholes, it paves the way for:

1. Increased water pollution and degradation of ecosystems. 2. Unchecked exploitation of natural resources by special interests. 3. Further erosion of public trust in government's ability to protect the environment.

In short, this bill is a cynical attempt to serve the interests of the powerful at the expense of the environment and the general public. It's a classic case of " regulatory capture," where lawmakers prioritize the needs of their donors over those of their constituents.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go wash my hands after touching this legislative filth.

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