House passes Katko amendment to maintain funding for water infrastructure

Funding would be restored for a federal program that supports state and local investments in drinking water infrastructure following House approval on Thursday of a measure introduced by U.S. Rep. John Katko (R-NY).

An amendment introduced by Katko would prevent a proposed $250 million reduction in federal funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program in fiscal year 2018. A vote on the final bill is expected in the House this week.

“In Central New York and communities nationwide, municipalities are faced with aging water infrastructure,” Katko said. “This poses a growing threat to economic growth, public health and our environment. The state revolving funds are a proven, critical tool for states and local communities to make high priority water infrastructure investments that may not otherwise be feasible. In approving this amendment, the House restored $250 million to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, and will ensure that families across Central New York and our country have access to clean, safe water.”

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that $650 billion in combined investments will need to be made in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across the country over the next two decades, and the SRF program helps state and local authorities secure affordable financing to undertake those projects.

In urging the House to approve the amendment, Katko noted that Onondaga County in Central New York has leveraged more than $20 million through the SRF program to invest in sewage treatment plant and water quality improvements this year.

“Aging water infrastructure throughout Central New York is a present and ongoing issue, and State Revolving Funds are critical with respect to affordable reinvestment in our drinking water systems, wastewater systems and the overall protection of our vital water resources,” Michael Hooker, the executive director of the Onondaga County Water Authority, said. “We are pleased that Congressman Katko protected this important funding that all Central New Yorkers rely on to provide safe, clean water to all our residents.”

Norma Jean Mattei, the president of the American Society of Civil Engineers, said wastewater treatment plants serve more than 240 million Americans, and the SRF program helps ensure these utilities remain in working water and are able to make continued improvements in water quality.

“With wastewater getting a ‘D+’ in the latest Infrastructure Report Card, we applaud Rep. Katko’s efforts to restore this critical low-cost financing source for states and communities,” Mattei said.