The bill amends existing laws governing the water technical assistance fund and the water projects grant fund in Kansas, primarily by extending the expiration date of these funds and facilitating the transfer of funds from the state general fund to the state water plan fund. It requires the Kansas water office to manage appropriations for both funds and introduces new criteria for grant applications, prioritizing those that address public health, resource management, and regional cooperation. Notably, the previous requirement for municipalities to demonstrate a 25-year water supply in their applications has been removed, and grants will not be available for issues related to water rights impaired by another water right.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that grant applications must be submitted annually by September 15, with grants awarded within 180 days. It outlines conditions for revocation of grants, such as failure to accept the grant or evidence of fraud, and mandates that grantees enter into repayment agreements if grants are revoked. A scoring matrix will be used to evaluate applications based on public health impact, resource management, and economic considerations, while emphasizing regional cooperation and the necessity for municipalities to seek additional funding sources. The legislation aims to improve the management and funding of water infrastructure projects in Kansas, particularly benefiting smaller municipalities.

Statutes affected:
As introduced:
As Amended by Senate Committee:
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}:
As Amended by House Committee: