FUNDS/FUNDING: Provides for changes to the Water Sector Program. (gov sig) (EN +$1,523,090 GF EX See Note)

This bill modifies the Water Sector Program to direct funds deposited after July 1, 2024, specifically toward repairing, improving, and consolidating community water and sewer systems. It establishes a detailed process where the commission must set priorities and the division must create specific application guidelines by October 1, 2024, outlining requirements for matching funds and project proposals. Grant recipients will generally need to provide matching funds unless the commission waives this requirement, and all funding decisions require final approval from the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget. The legislation also allows for emergency procurement of necessary services without following standard state purchasing rules to expedite fund distribution.