House Introduces DWSRF Reauthorization Measure
On September 18th, House Energy & Commerce (E&C) Ranking Member Henry Waxman (D-CA) and E&C Environment & the Economy Subcommittee Ranking Member Paul Tonko (D-NY) introduced HR 5524, the Assistance, Quality and Affordability Act. The measure is designed to reauthorize the revolving loan fund provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Although the bill text officially has not yet been published, the Committee’s minority staff has released a summary of the bill’s purpose and direction. Among the various provisions are the following:
- Projects designed to improve the sustainability and long term viability of water systems should get priority for funding through the SRF.
- The first priority for SRF funds should be water systems serving disadvantaged communities that cannot afford to comply with new drinking water standards.
- Technical assistance funds for small water systems are awarded through a competitive process.
- EPA shall collect and disseminate information on best practices for state agencies implementing SRF programs.
- Requires electronic submission of compliance information and clarifying requirements for technical assistance and follow up inspections.
- EPA shall study the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in sources of drinking water.
ASDWA will share more details about this legislation as it becomes available.
