The bill introduces new criteria for the operation of the water technical assistance fund and the water projects grant fund in Kansas, requiring municipalities to demonstrate a current 25-year water supply in their applications for water distribution projects. Exceptions are made for applications related to new water supply sources that extend beyond 25 years. The bill prohibits grants for issues concerning water rights impaired by another water right and prioritizes applications based on public health, resource management, population trends, funding sources, regional cooperation, and weather resiliency. Applications must be submitted annually by September 15, and grants can be revoked under specific conditions, necessitating repayment.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to improve the administration of these funds by the Kansas water office. It prioritizes municipalities with fewer than 2,000 residents for full grants while excluding special water-related districts from this prioritization. A scoring matrix will evaluate applications based on various factors, including public health impact and economic considerations. The bill also outlines new requirements for municipalities to demonstrate the necessity of their projects for economic growth and regional cooperation, with provisions for notifying applicants about insufficient information and allowing a 30-day compliance period. It establishes conditions for grant revocation and repayment requirements, indicating a significant update to the grant process for water-related projects in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: