Political Quotes

“today, I introduce the Water Resource Study Act of 2001. The purpose of this bill is to ensure an adequate supply of fresh water for Tennessee's future. Currently, Tennessee is one of the fastest growing states in the country. We rank 9th out of the 50 states in projected population growth over the next 25 years. Though we welcome this growth, it is beginning to place a strain on our water supply. For example, public water use increased from 380 million gallons in 1960 to 777 million gallons in 1995. As industry and population increase, it will not be long before growth outpaces available water supply. We must act now to avoid serious problems. Specifically, this legislation would allow Tennessee to work with the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to select a geographical area within the state having 'consistent, emerging water supply needs' and to take a serious look at the water supply in that particular area. After gathering relevant data, the study would consider available federal resources, identify areas for improvement and detect outdated programs. It would also begin determining the appropriate role of the federal government in helping local communities to develop an adequate water supply. This legislation is not the full solution, but it will assist in understanding the complexity of water supply development and the different alternatives to meeting future water supply needs.”