/ News / NACWA Lauds Bipartisan Passage of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act

NACWA Lauds Bipartisan Passage of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act

Parul Dubey on October 11, 2018 - in News, Water

Washington, DC – With the Senate passage of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) commends both the House and Senate for their strong collaboration with the Association throughout the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) process to ensure the inclusion of several bipartisan provisions that are important to the municipal clean water sector.

 

“This legislation reinforces the critical role that municipal water infrastructure plays in communities all across the nation, as well as the need for robust federal funding to help support this infrastructure,” said Adam Krantz, NACWA’s Chief Executive Officer. “NACWA thanks Congress for its leadership on this issue and is committed to continued efforts to elevate water as a top national priority.”

 

Specifically, NACWA supports the provisions that make permanent the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program and provides increased funding authorizations at $50 million each for the next two fiscal years. NACWA also supports the inclusion of a new program to help bolster financing for the State Revolving Funds (SRFs), the renewed authorization of $225 million annually over the next two fiscal years for the Combined Sewer Overflow grants program, and the creation of a US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) task force which will include local government representation to study and provide recommendations on how to address stormwater funding and financing.

 

The bill—which now awaits the President’s signature—also includes language championed by NACWA and its water sector partners to establish a water workforce training pilot grant program through EPA, as well as language to improve coordination between the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and local communities on water management plans.

 

NACWA especially appreciates the hard work and commitment of Sens. John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) in ensuring that strong water infrastructure funding was included in the bill, which ultimately helps ensure clean water and the protection of public health and the environment for communities throughout the country.

 

NACWA looks forward to continued engagement with Congress on policies that are critical to the municipal clean water sector and the communities we represent.

 

About NACWA

For nearly 50 years, the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) has been the nation’s recognized leader in legislative, regulatory and legal advocacy on the full spectrum of clean water issues. NACWA represents public wastewater and stormwater agencies of all sizes nationwide. Our unique and growing network strengthens the advocacy voice for all member utilities, and ensures they have the tools necessary to provide affordable and sustainable clean water for all.  Our vision is to represent every utility as a NACWA member, helping to build a strong and sustainable clean water future. For more information, visit us at www.nacwa.org

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