Bill > HR5869

This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to expand water infrastructure grant opportunities for Indian Tribes. Specifically, the bill requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator to reserve either 2 percent of available funds or $30 million annually for tribal water infrastructure grants. These grants can be used for water treatment projects, training, technical assistance, and educational programs related to water treatment works, with a limitation that no more than $2 million can be used for training and educational purposes. The bill also authorizes an additional $500 million in appropriations for each fiscal year from 2026 to 2031, to be distributed through grants in cooperation with the Indian Health Service. Importantly, tribes receiving these grants will not be required to provide matching funds, and the grants can cover projects for constructing, altering, maintaining, or repairing treatment works. This legislation aims to support tribal communities by increasing financial resources and support for improving water infrastructure and related technical capabilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5869/all-info