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Water Prioritization: New Rules for Critical Access in Emergencies

This act allows for faster provision of drinking water and emergency services, even if it conflicts with endangered species protection. The goal is to ensure citizens have priority access to water during crises like droughts or fires. However, it introduces changes to existing environmental protection rules.
Key points
Authorities can temporarily suspend species protection requirements to provide water for drinking, firefighting, public health, and food security.
Before this happens, water agencies must prove they have exhausted all other options, such as water conservation or seeking alternative sources.
Such exemptions are temporary (up to 180 days, renewable) and require regular reports on environmental impact and plans to reinstate normal rules.
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Introduced
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_386
Sponsor: Sen. Lummis, Cynthia M. [R-WY]
Process start date: 2025-02-04