This legislation reauthorizes several critical environmental protection programs under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Specifically, it extends funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the Long Island Sound program, and the Columbia River Basin Restoration program through fiscal year 2031. The bill also reauthorizes the National Estuary Program until 2031 and adds Mississippi Sound, Mississippi, to the list of designated estuaries, though with specific funding limitations for its initial implementation.

Significant changes are made to the San Francisco Bay Restoration Program, expanding eligible recipients for funding to include a broader range of public and private entities and establishing a 75 percent federal cost-share limit with a 25 percent non-federal match requirement. The bill also enhances Coastal Recreation Water Quality Monitoring and Notification by allowing grants to be used for identifying specific sources of contamination and broadening the definition of "coastal recreation waters." Furthermore, it mandates that EPA guidance for these monitoring programs reflect innovations in testing technologies.

A new provision prohibits federal funds for these reauthorized programs from being provided to non-Federal entities domiciled in, headquartered in, or having agreements with a foreign country of concern. To ensure accountability, the legislation requires the Comptroller General of the United States to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within two years. This report will evaluate the management, progress, obstacles, coordination, and ethics policies of various EPA geographic programs, offering recommendations for improved efficiency and effectiveness.