U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Alabama) praised the passage of S. 3021, America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. Shelby said that the bill answers President Trump’s call to address our nation’s aging water infrastructure.
“The state of Alabama and the entire nation will benefit across the board from this water infrastructure bill,” said Senator Shelby. “The bipartisan measure provides resources to keep our communities safe by improving drinking water and wastewater systems. It also authorizes important water projects that will create jobs and spur economic growth and development, increasing the impact of federal dollars. I look forward to witnessing the effects of this legislation and will continue to work diligently with my colleagues to prioritize our nation’s immediate and long-term infrastructure needs.”
This bipartisan legislation authorizes funding that will impact all 50 states. The bill supports important projects designed improve nationally significant ports, maintain inland waterways, upgrade dams and irrigation systems, and increase water storage. These projects are designed to help safeguard the shipment of American-made goods to the coasts and around the world, while also ensuring water delivery to America’s ranchers and farmers. The bill also approves resources to help rural communities participate in successful federal leveraging programs.
The legislation provides maintenance for dams and levees and addresses drinking water and wastewater systems across the country. The legislation reauthorizes the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds for the first time since 1996 granting states the ability to address drinking water needs.
It is the most sweeping infrastructure package to be considered by this Congress. Supporters claim that it will help grow the economy, keep communities safe, and cut red tape.
Senate Bill 3021 was sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota).
The House of Representatives passed the legislation by voice vote last month. The bill passed the Senate with House amendments on Wednesday by a vote of 99 to 1. It will now move to the President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature.
Senator Richard Shelby js a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Shelby is also the Chairman of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.
