Water Project Navigators Act

The Water Project Navigators Act establishes a federal program to fund "water project navigators" who assist eligible communities and organizations in developing multi-benefit water projects. These navigators, funded through grants to states, tribes, nonprofits, or local entities in specific eligible states (including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico), help plan projects that improve water supply resilience (e.g., conservation, recycling) while also protecting ecosystems and supporting communities. The program prioritizes projects benefiting disadvantaged communities, Indian Tribes, drought-affected areas, and those incorporating natural features, with federal funding covering up to 75% of costs. It requires annual funding of $15 million and mandates a congressional report on the program’s impact after five years.