Bipartisan Legislation Introduced to Modernize Clean Water Funding Formula
Senators Rick Scott and Mark Kelly have introduced the Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act to update the decades-old formula used to distribute Clean Water State Revolving Fund dollars to states.
On July 21, 2026, a bipartisan group of senators introduced the Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act. The legislation aims to overhaul the Reagan-era formula currently used to allocate Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) resources among the states.
The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) has expressed strong support for the bill, noting that the current distribution model no longer reflects modern population shifts or infrastructure needs. Proponents argue that a modernized formula will ensure that federal funds are directed to the areas with the most pressing water quality challenges.
If passed, the act would represent the first major update to the CWSRF distribution mechanism in decades, potentially shifting how states receive and utilize federal support for wastewater projects.
EPA Announces $272 Million WIFIA Loan for Columbia, Tennessee
The EPA has awarded a $272 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the city of Columbia, Tennessee. The funding is designated to support critical upgrades to the city's water and wastewater infrastructure.
Source: US EPA
Department of Energy Invests $27.8 Million to Decarbonize Water Resource Recovery Facilities
The U.S. Department of Energy has announced $27.8 million in funding for 10 projects focused on decarbonizing water resource recovery facilities. These initiatives aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% without increasing operational costs.
Source: energy.gov
Legislation Extending Drinking and Clean Water SRF Programs Moves Forward
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, which includes critical reauthorization for EPA water infrastructure funding. The bill authorizes $14 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and $16.5 billion for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund over the next several years.
Source: LICA National
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