A bill authorizing the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to survey, plan, construct and operate projects to bring water to or store water for areas with present or anticipated water shortages.

Declares that development of new water supplies is in the national interest. Directs the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to survey, plan, construct, and operate projects for the storage of water needed to meet demands, and for its transportation to regions with present or anticipated water shortages. Requires that each such project be specifically authorized by law.

Provides that project costs be repayable over 50-year-maximum periods by the water users, pursuant to contracts with municipalities or other public organizations. Makes a repayment exception for projects in rural population areas.