Bill > S1730

This bill (the Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2025) is a comprehensive legislation aimed at improving water infrastructure and services across the United States by providing significant funding and implementing several key reforms. The bill allocates substantial federal funds across multiple agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Agriculture, and the Indian Health Service, totaling over $34 billion for fiscal year 2025. These funds are designated for various water-related programs, such as clean water grants, safe drinking water assistance, rural water services, and infrastructure improvements for Native American communities. The legislation also mandates a comprehensive study on water service affordability, discrimination, and civil rights issues, requiring the EPA to investigate water rates, service disconnections, and potential disparate impacts on vulnerable populations. Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for state revolving funds, including provisions for purchasing privately owned water systems, increasing subsidies for low-income communities, and promoting project labor agreements for water infrastructure projects. The bill also includes specific provisions for improving drinking water in schools, supporting tribal water systems, and providing assistance to border communities and colonias, with a strong emphasis on ensuring equitable, transparent, and reliable water services across the country.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1730/all-info