House passes bill on water reuse

The House passed Wednesday a bill by Rep. Jim Matheson, D-Utah, to create new research programs into how to conserve water, use it more efficiently and reuse wastewater.

"Many experts are starting to see water as 'the new oil' in terms of what a precious commodity it is," Matheson said. "The key to avoiding future scarcity is more efficient use, reuse and distribution. We need the best minds tackling this challenge, and then we need to ensure the information is readily available to the public."

The bill, which passed on a voice vote, creates a research and development program on water efficiency to be overseen by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Matheson said it will research technology and processes dealing with the collection, storage and reuse of rainwater, storm water and wastewater from sinks and baths.

"Fast-growing urban areas in arid or drought-stricken regions are looking at water shortages unless we get smarter about using technology to be more efficient. It will also save money," Matheson said.

The bill would authorize spending $20 million per year for five years for the program.

— Lee Davidson