IA supports reintroduced WCRTA legislation

The Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act was reintroduced in both the House and Senate on March 5. The Irrigation Association voiced its support for the bill, with IA CEO Natasha Rankin providing a statement included in announcements from Representatives Huffman, Moore and Chu, as well as Senators Curtis, Padilla and Hickenlooper.

The proposed legislation aims to include rebates for water conservation or efficiency measures under the existing tax exclusion for conservation subsidies. According to the bill, this would place water conservation rebates on par with energy conservation rebates, such as those offered for EnergyStar appliances. Rebates for purchases of smart irrigation controllers would be included. This bill has been a priority legislative effort for the Irrigation Association. Expanding the tax exclusion to include water conservation rebates will drive greater adoption of practices that not only save water but also contribute to broader environmental benefits, encouraging more efficient water use.

The IA’s statement of support included the following:

“The Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act is a practical and necessary solution that empowers consumers to reduce water use while removing burdensome tax requirements that discourage conservation. By making water conservation rebates tax-exempt, this bill incentivizes investment in smart water use products, lowers costs for consumers and bolsters our nation’s long-term water security. We commend Representatives Huffman and Moore, along with Senators Curtis, Padilla and Hickenlooper for championing this critical legislation and urge Congress to act quickly to sign this bipartisan measure into law.”

The IA will continue to advocate for this bill as it moves through the legislative process, calling on Congress to act swiftly to pass the measure and provide much-needed support for water conservation efforts nationwide.