S. 1019 — Rural Water System Disaster Preparedness and Assistance Act

This section establishes an emergency preparedness and response technical assistance program under the water and waste disposal authorities of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (i.e., 7 U.S.C. 1926(a)). The program provides grants to eligible nonprofit organizations with nationwide experience in disaster assistance for water and wastewater utilities—and the capacity to deploy licensed operators or experts—to aid associations operating rural water or wastewater systems serving farmers, ranchers, rural businesses, and other rural residents. Eligible activities include (1) providing onsite personnel and equipment during disasters; (2) coordinating with emergency networks; (3) developing disaster action plans; (4) improving resiliency and mitigation; (5) GIS mapping; (6) preparing vulnerability assessments and response plans; (7) conducting damage assessments; (8) delivering emergency restoration services (e.g., pump repair, disinfection, leak detection, bypass pumping); (9) addressing regulatory, operational, financial, and managerial deficiencies; (10) assisting with federal and state aid applications; and (11) targeting disadvantaged communities. Grant funds may cover salaries, supplies, and expenses, with no more than 25% for emergency equipment costs and no use for federally funded activities already. The section authorizes $20 million for each of FY2025 through FY2029.