EPA Air

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $98.53M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Maryland

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $98,531,000 to Maryland to upgrade essential drinking water infrastructure. Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments made through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“This historic funding is going toward a most vital resource – drinking water,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Marylanders in neighborhoods from urban corners in Baltimore and the Eastern Shore to rural communities in the Appalachian Plateau will benefit with clean and safe water from their taps.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

“Maryland works in partnership with the EPA to ensure that all communities across our state, including those that are underserved and overburdened, have safe and sustainable supplies of drinking water,” said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. “We are particularly focused on making the best use of the EPA’s water infrastructure funding to build on our work to identify lead pipes for replacement and to help water systems pay for improvements to reduce PFAS risks to their customers.”

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $265.9M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Pennsylvania

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $265,913,000 to Pennsylvania for upgrades to essential drinking water infrastructure. Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing investments available through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“These historic investments will help communities in Pennsylvania resolve decades-long problems that threaten the safety of their drinking water,” said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz.  “Ensuring that the most vulnerable communities benefit from this funding is critical for protecting their health, making them resilient to the effects of climate change, and growing their local economies.”

“Thanks to the infrastructure law, Pennsylvania will receive more than $265 million to make our drinking water safer and cleaner, including significant boosts in funding to eradicate ‘forever chemicals’ like PFAS and replace lead pipes,” said U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). “Every Pennsylvanian has the right to safe, pure water and I will keep working with the Biden Administration until that promise is a reality in our urban, suburban, and rural communities alike.”

“It’s just plain commonsense that we need to provide clean drinking water to all communities in Pennsylvania and across the country,” said U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA). “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s robust investment in water infrastructure will help ensure that access to clean drinking water is a right, even in communities that have long been marginalized and forgotten.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Other Notable Quotes

“Today’s announcement is a step forward for communities’ access to safe drinking water,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick (PA-01). “I’m proud to have helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that boosts our investment in clean water infrastructure.”

“We should never be in doubt about the safety of our drinking water when we turn on our taps in our homes and at work,” said Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02). “This funding award will bring long needed improvements, upgrades, and rebuilds to Philadelphia's aging water infrastructure system. It will also bring many jobs to the union members and trades people in my district. I applaud President Biden for delivering on his promise to remove 100% of lead pipes in Pennsylvania and across our nation.”

“With the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we have the historic opportunity to transform Pennsylvania’s infrastructure, including updating our water infrastructure—and I’m grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA for their commitment to replacing lead pipes and combating contaminants like PFAS,” Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) said. “Our communities deserve clean drinking water—it is fundamental to the Pennsylvania constitution— and I will continue to work to ensure the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians.”

“You should not be putting your health at risk by drinking a glass of water from your sink,” said Rep. Susan Wild (PA-07). “Whether it’s replacing dangerous lead pipes or ridding ‘forever chemicals’ like PFAS from our water, I’ve pushed to strengthen the Greater Lehigh Valley’s water infrastructure—so I’m very, very glad that Pennsylvania is receiving this important investment to clean up our water, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I helped to pass. I think we can all agree: clean and safe drinking water should be available to everyone, everywhere.”

“Every Pennsylvanian should have clean and safe drinking water, and it is our government’s job to make sure that they do,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) “I am grateful that President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is pumping federal resources into Western Pennsylvania’s water infrastructure to protect our communities from lead pipes, forever chemicals, and other pollutants.”

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $96.21M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Virginia

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $96,211,000 to Virginia for upgrading essential drinking water infrastructure.  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments made through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“These historic investments will help communities in Virginia resolve decades-long problems that threaten the safety of their drinking water,” said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz.  “Ensuring that the most vulnerable communities benefit from this funding is critical for protecting their health, making them resilient to the effects of climate change, and growing their local economies.”

“Clean water is fundamental to the wellbeing of a community, which is why I’m thrilled to see the bipartisan infrastructure law making historic investments in water infrastructure all around Virginia,” said U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D). “The transformational improvements enabled by this funding will support economic growth and a healthy way of life for many communities throughout the Commonwealth.”  

“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more communities in Virginia and across the country are going to benefit from upgraded drinking water infrastructure,” said U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D). “I’m glad Virginia is receiving this federal funding to help ensure Virginians have access to clean and safe drinking water.”

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Other Notable Quotes:

Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA3)

“Today’s announcement from the EPA is great news for Virginians. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law made important investments in removing lead pipes and improving our water infrastructure thereby ensuring that all communities in Virginia have access to safe, clean water.”

Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA7)

“Virginians deserve reliable access to clean and safe drinking water. The bipartisan infrastructure law — which I was proud to help negotiate and pass — is already delivering on this promise. This major investment will make Virginia’s drinking water safer for our Commonwealth’s families, kids, and seniors. By cleaning up our drinking water, replacing lead pipes and services lines, and making our wastewater systems more efficient, we are making an investment in a safer, healthier, and stronger Virginia.”

Rep. Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA8)

“This funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will help replace infrastructure needed to provide safe, clean drinking water in communities across the Commonwealth.  Many localities, including Alexandria, where I live, have old infrastructure that is much in need of replacement. Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, we will see improved clean water infrastructure in communities across the country.”

Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA10)

“Thanks to the investments we delivered through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we're bringing clean, safe drinking water to every community in Virginia. I’ve heard directly from communities in Virginia’s 10th District how this funding will help replace aging water lines, remove hazardous materials from water systems, and expand clean drinking water infrastructure to underserved rural areas. I'm proud that this historic, bipartisan legislation continues to improve the health of kids and families here in our Commonwealth.”

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA11)

Investments like this one are exactly why we fought so hard for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, we are one giant step closer to ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water for every Virginian.”

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $62.28M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Delaware

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $62,283,000 to Delaware for upgrades to essential drinking water infrastructure. Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing investments available through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

These historic investments will help communities in Delaware resolve decades-long problems that threaten the safety of their drinking water,” said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz.  “Ensuring that the most vulnerable communities benefit from this funding is critical for protecting their health, making them resilient to the effects of climate change, and growing their local economies.”

“Delaware is pleased to be receiving a second year of increased funding for improvements to drinking water systems under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Molly Magarik, Cabinet Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, which oversees the state’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. “Municipalities and water companies are applying for these funds through the Division of Public Health and we look forward to financing projects that will lead to cleaner, safer and more reliable drinking water around the state.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $62.28M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in District of Columbia

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $62,283,000 to District of Columbia essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF).  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“These historic investments will enable DC Water to accelerate their work to replace all lead service lines in the District, starting with the most disadvantaged neighborhoods, and make other improvements to deliver safe and reliable drinking water to their customers,” said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. 

“D.C. is wholly dependent on the Potomac River for drinking water, with no backup facility to ensure clean drinking water for D.C. residents in the event the Potomac is rendered undrinkable due to natural or man-made disasters,” said Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC). “I am pleased the Biden-Harris Administration is acting to protect the drinking water of the nation's capital.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $62.28M for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in West Virginia

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $62,283,000 to West Virginia for upgrading essential drinking water infrastructure. Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing investments available through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”

“Having spent time in West Virginia meeting with communities who have endured decades-long problems accessing safe, reliable drinking water, I know how essential this infrastructure funding is to them,” said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz.  “Ensuring that these most vulnerable communities benefit from this funding is critical for protecting their health and growing their local economies.”

“When crafting the infrastructure law in the Environment and Public Works Committee, we made it a priority to provide long-term funding with maximum state flexibility that would help ensure communities across West Virginia and the rest of the country had safe, clean drinking water,” EPW Committee Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) said. “The upgrades and modernizations that will be made to water systems as a result of these funds being disbursed to states will make a key difference for the health and safety of residents moving forward.”

“Every community and every West Virginian deserves access to clean water. That’s why this critical portion of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was carved out to deliver these critical improvements to communities across the country,” said U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.WVa.) “I’m proud of this bipartisan law and will continue working with the Administration to ensure every community in the Mountain State has access to reliable and clean water.” 

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

EPA and DOE Honor Appalachian Power Company in Charleston, West Virginia, as 2023 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA  (April 5, 2023) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Mid-Atlantic Region and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are honoring Appalachian Power Company in Charleston, West Virginia as an ENERGY STAR partner of the year for their outstanding leadership in promoting energy efficiency and tackling climate change.

“As we accelerate historic efforts to address climate change, public-private partnerships will be essential to realizing the scale of our ambition,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I applaud this year’s ENERGY STAR award winners for working with EPA to deliver a clean energy future that saves American consumers and businesses money and creates jobs.”

Appalachian Power Company (Charleston, West Virginia), an electric utility, helped customers save more than 14 million kilowatt hours (kWh) through its efficient products program, which provided incentives on a wide array of ENERGY STAR certified products and resulted in the sale of more than 3,000 ENERGY STAR certified appliances and 92,000 weather stripping and insulation products.

For more than 30 years, EPA’s ENERGY STAR program has supported the transition to a clean energy economy by fostering innovation, jobs, and economic development, while protecting public health. ENERGY STAR certified products, homes, buildings, and plants helped save American families and businesses more than 520 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and avoid $42 billion in energy costs in 2020 alone. 

Read more about the ENERGY STAR Awards and Award Winners’ achievements.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations rely on their partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $500 billion in energy costs and achieve more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions. More background information about ENERGY STAR’s impacts can be found at www.energystar.gov/impacts.

EPA and DOE Honor 2023 ENERGY STAR® Partners of the Year Award Winners in Virginia

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Mid-Atlantic Region and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are honoring nine ENERGY STAR partners in Virginia for their outstanding leadership in promoting energy efficiency and tackling climate change.

“As we accelerate historic efforts to address climate change, public-private partnerships will be essential to realizing the scale of our ambition,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I applaud this year’s ENERGY STAR award winners for working with EPA to deliver a clean energy future that saves American consumers and businesses money and creates jobs.”

For more than 30 years, EPA’s ENERGY STAR program has supported the transition to a clean energy economy by fostering innovation, jobs, and economic development, while protecting public health. ENERGY STAR certified products, homes, buildings, and plants helped save American families and businesses more than 520 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and avoid $42 billion in energy costs in 2020 alone. 

Here are a few examples of how 2023 ENERGY STAR Award Winners in Virginia  are taking action:

  • Dominion Energy (Richmond, Virginia), a power and energy company, successfully implemented a retail program, an online marketplace, and a multi-media outreach campaign that collectively resulted in over 3.6 million ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs sold and more than 15,000 residential customer rebates on ENERGY STAR certified appliances.
  • Dominion Energy Ohio (Richmond, Virginia), a natural gas company, leveraged the ENERGY STAR® brand to complete 4,155 energy assessments and install 3,240 home performance projects.
  • Fairfax County Public Schools (Falls Church, Virginia), a school district in Virginia, achieved recognition as an ENERGY STAR Certification Nation Executive Member by earning the ENERGY STAR® for 61 schools in 2022 and saving more than 21% in energy use and $65 million since 2014 and more than $10 million in annual energy costs, as well as avoiding more than 33,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
  • Home Energy Medics, LLC. (Arlington, Virginia), a home performance company, fine-tuned its training and quality assurance protocols to achieve greater energy efficiency for its customers through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program, reducing energy bills by as much as 50%.
  • Loudoun County Public Schools (Ashburn, Virginia), a school district in Virginia, achieved recognition as an ENERGY STAR Certification Nation Premier member by earning the ENERGY STAR for 26 schools in 2022 and saving more than $7.2 million in utility costs in 2022.
  • Main Street Homes (Midlothian, Virginia), a local home builder, built over 300 ENERGY STAR certified homes in 2022, for a total of more than 2,100 since 2001, and hosted a new home orientation for each homebuyer before closing on their new home to explain their home’s systems and ENERGY STAR features and benefits.
  • Park Hotels & Resorts (Tysons, Virginia), a lodging real estate investment trust, achieved significant energy efficiency improvements over the past year by incorporating ENERGY STAR benchmarking and performance metrics, and earned ENERGY STAR certification for five hotels, representing more than 4.5 million square feet of space.
  • PEG, LLC (FAIRFAX, Virginia), a home energy rating and HVAC design engineering company, certified 7,500 homes as ENERGY STAR in 2022, and expanded participation in ENERGY STAR with both existing and new builder partners.
  • Washington Gas (Springfield, Virginia), a natural gas utility, collaborated with other utilities participating in the EmPower Maryland program to save residential customers more than 140,000 therms and commercial customers more than 260,000 therms with ENERGY STAR certified products.

Read more about the ENERGY STAR Awards and Award Winners’ achievements.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations rely on their partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $500 billion in energy costs and achieve more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions. More background information about ENERGY STAR’s impacts can be found at www.energystar.gov/impacts.

EPA and DOE Honor 2023 ENERGY STAR® Partners of the Year Award Winners in Maryland

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

PHILADELPHIA (April 5, 2023) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Mid-Atlantic Region and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are honoring eight ENERGY STAR partners in Maryland for their outstanding leadership in promoting energy efficiency and tackling climate change.

“As we accelerate historic efforts to address climate change, public-private partnerships will be essential to realizing the scale of our ambition,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I applaud this year’s ENERGY STAR award winners for working with EPA to deliver a clean energy future that saves American consumers and businesses money and creates jobs.”

For more than 30 years, EPA’s ENERGY STAR program has supported the transition to a clean energy economy by fostering innovation, jobs, and economic development, while protecting public health. ENERGY STAR certified products, homes, buildings, and plants helped save American families and businesses more than 520 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and avoid $42 billion in energy costs in 2020 alone. 

Here are a few examples of how 2023 ENERGY STAR Award Winners in Maryland are taking action:

  • Baltimore Gas Electric (Baltimore, Maryland), a gas and electric utility, leveraged ENERGY STAR partnerships to support the construction of nearly 1,800 ENERGY STAR certified homes, completed more than 1,500 home performance projects, and provided rebates on more than 58,000 measures through the ENERGY STAR Retail Products Platform.
  • Bozzuto Management Company (Greenbelt, Maryland), a third-party manager of multifamily communities, leveraged ENERGY STAR resources to engage with internal and external stakeholders and developed unique and innovative tools to reduce energy consumption across its managed portfolio.
  • EDGE Energy (Beltsville, Maryland), a home performance company, increased the number of home energy assessments performed and Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® projects completed, while simultaneously improving average energy savings per project. 
  • Global Facility Solutions, LLC (Columbia, Maryland), an energy and engineering services company, benchmarked 100% of its client properties in ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, with nearly 60 of these properties earning ENERGY STAR certification.
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation (Bethesda, Maryland), an aerospace manufacturer, continued to mature its energy and sustainability program in support of the company’s decarbonization activities through work with ENERGY STAR.
  • National Asphalt Pavement Association (Greenbelt, Maryland), which represents U.S. asphalt mixture producers and paving contractors, worked in partnership with ENERGY STAR to develop resources that will enable the industry to better understand their energy performance and decrease greenhouse gas emissions from their facilities.
  • Pando Alliance (Ellicott City, Maryland), a home energy rating company, certified more than 700 dwelling units as ENERGY STAR in 2022, for a total of over 5,000 since 2011.
  • Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative -SMECO (Hughesville, Maryland), a customer-owned electric cooperative, for promoting ENERGY STAR across the residential home and consumer products sectors and delivering more than 72,000 megawatt-hours of electricity savings across its programs, an increase of 29% compared to 2021.

Read more about the ENERGY STAR Awards and Award Winners’ achievements.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations rely on their partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $500 billion in energy costs and achieve more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions. More background information about ENERGY STAR’s impacts can be found at www.energystar.gov/impacts.

EPA announces $29 million investment for water infrastructure upgrades in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced $29,691,000 from the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act for states, Tribes and territories through this year’s Clean Water State Revolving Funds.

The funding will help communities upgrade essential wastewater and stormwater systems to protect public health and treasured water bodies across the nation.

EPA announced the following:

  • Alaska will receive $4,490,000
  • Idaho will receive $3,683,000
  • Oregon will receive $8,473,000
  • Washington will receive $13,045,000

The funding is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda announced earlier this week, and builds on the second wave of $2.4 billion EPA announced for clean water infrastructure upgrades through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in February.

See the state-by-state allocation of 2023 CWSRF funding.

See a breakdown of EPA CWSRF funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Background

The CWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. Under the Clean Water programs, EPA provides funding to all 50 states and Puerto Rico to capitalize on SRF loan programs. For the base programs, the states and Puerto Rico contribute an additional 20 percent to match the federal grants.

The 51 SRF programs function like infrastructure banks by providing low-interest loans to eligible recipients for clean water infrastructure projects. As the loan principal and interest are repaid over time, it allows the state’s CWSRF to be recycled or “revolve.” As money is returned to the state’s revolving loan fund, the state makes new loans to other eligible recipients. These funds can also be combined with Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding and EPA’s Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans to create a powerful, innovative financing solution for major infrastructure projects.

EPA Fines Bobalee Inc. in Iowa for Alleged Hazardous Waste Violations

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

LENEXA, KAN. (APRIL 5, 2023) – Bobalee Inc. in Laurens, Iowa, will pay $26,534 in civil penalties to resolve alleged violations of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the company, which manufactures welded hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, generated hazardous waste at its facility and failed to notify EPA of its status as a hazardous waste generator and failed to properly handle the hazardous waste.

“It is a violation of federal law to generate hazardous waste and fail to notify EPA or obtain the necessary permits,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “EPA’s enforcement actions demonstrate our commitment to protect human health and the environment from potential releases of chemical waste.”

According to EPA, Bobalee Inc. generates paint waste that is classified as toxic and ignitable as part of its manufacturing process.

Upon notification to Bobalee Inc. of the alleged violations, the company took immediate steps to return to compliance.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act creates the framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. Learn more about the Act.

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View all Region 7 news releases

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EPA Orders Valero Refining to Improve Chemical Safety at Benicia, CA Refinery

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Valero Refining-California to resolve violations of the Clean Air Act's Chemical Accident Prevention regulations at their Benicia Refinery. The company will pay a $1,224,550 penalty and make changes to improve process safety at the refinery.

“This settlement sends a clear message that EPA will prosecute companies that fail to expend the resources needed to have a compliant, well-functioning Risk Management Plan to the fullest extent of the law,” said Acting Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.

“Failure to properly manage hazardous materials can pose serious risks to our California communities,” said Martha Guzman, Regional Administrator of EPA Region 9. “This settlement will help protect Valero workers, the Benicia community, and the environment more broadly.”

After significant chemical incidents at the Benicia Refinery in 2017 and 2019, a 2019 EPA inspection at the facility identified several areas of noncompliance, including that Valero failed to immediately report releases of hazardous substances, update certain process safety information, adequately analyze certain process hazards, and develop and implement certain written operating procedures.

Under the terms of the settlement, Valero has agreed to make significant chemical safety improvements at the Benicia Refinery. The company has already made several of these changes, related to chemical safety, in response to EPA’s inspection. These improvements include updating and modifying process hazard analyses, modifying operating procedures, modifying reporting policies, and improving employee training. The settlement also requires Valero to modify several pressure-relief valves and update process hazard analyses to consider hazards of power loss at the facility. As part of the settlement, Valero will continue to implement safety improvements through June 2025.

The Benicia Refinery is one of thousands of facilities nationwide that make, use, and store extremely hazardous substances. Reducing the risk of accidental releases at industrial and chemical facilities like the Benicia Refinery is one of EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives. Catastrophic accidents at these facilities can result in death or serious injuries; impacts to the community, including orders to evacuate or shelter-in-place; and other harm to human health and the environment. The Clean Air Act requires that industrial and chemical facilities that store large amounts of hazardous substances develop and implement a Risk Management Plan to reduce the risk of accidental releases.

For more information on the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Plan Program, please visit EPA’s Risk Management Program (RMP) Rule webpage.

For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

EPA Region 10 announces Regional Pollution Prevention Award Program

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Region 10 office is accepting applications for the 2023 Regional Pollution Prevention Award Program through May 19.

This is the first year of the voluntary, non-monetary awards program in EPA Region 10. The awards will recognize companies and businesses operating on tribal lands for demonstrated leadership in innovative P2 practices within the states of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

Those interested should submit a EPA Regional Pollution Prevention Recognition Awards Application.

P2, as defined in the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, is any practice that reduces environmental releases of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants prior to entering a waste stream for recycling, treatment or disposal.

More information on EPA’s P2 Program.

EPA Region 8 announces the 2023 Regional Pollution Prevention Award Program

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

DENVER –– The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 is announcing the 2023 Regional Pollution Prevention (P2) Recognition Awards Program. EPA Region 8 is requesting applications from companies in Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming and Tribal lands within the boundaries of Region 8 for recognition of demonstrated leadership in innovative P2 practices. 

“EPA’s Pollution Prevention Award Program recognizes organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to reducing, eliminating or preventing pollution at the source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal,” said KC Becker, EPA Region 8 Regional Administrator. “We look forward to celebrating these forward-thinking organizations that have reduced their environmental impact, improved the quality of life in their communities and often realized cost savings along the way.” 

Pollution prevention, as defined in the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990, is any practice that reduces environmental releases of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants prior to entering a waste stream for recycling, treatment or disposal. P2 conserves natural resources, including water and energy, by focusing industry, government and public attention on reducing pollution through the implementation of cost-effective changes in production, operation and the use of raw materials. EPA’s P2 program is voluntary and encourages stakeholders to seek innovative ways to prevent pollution from entering waste streams through a competitive grant process and the provision of technical assistance to businesses. 

This is an annual, voluntary and non-monetary award program. Those interested in applying to be considered for an award should submit a complete application describing the nominee’s P2 efforts, activities, cost savings, pounds of hazardous chemicals reduced, energy conserved or gallons of water saved, as well as the replicability of their approach. The application deadline is May 19, 2023. For information on how to apply, visit 2023 P2 Awards Program.

In 2021, EPA Region 8 recognized four Colorado companies as winners of the P2 Award Program.  Leprino Foods Company, Management and Engineering Services LLC, PCs for People and Taco Star all showed a commitment to pollution prevention by reducing, eliminating or preventing pollution at its source. For more information on R8’s past winners visit R8 Past P2 Winners.

For more information on P2 and the P2 Grant Program, visit P2 Grant Program

Biden-Harris Administration Proposes to Strengthen the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards for Power Plants

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 19:00

WASHINGTON – Today, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed to strengthen and update the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) for coal-fired power plants, achieving important hazardous air pollutant emissions reductions and ensuring standards reflect the latest advancements in pollution control technologies. These public health protections are especially important for anyone affected by hazardous air pollution, including children and particularly vulnerable segments of the population such as Indigenous communities, low-income communities, and people of color who live near power plants.

This proposed rule, the most significant update since MATS was first issued in February 2012, fulfills EPA’s responsibility under the Clean Air Act to periodically review emission standards. Earlier this year EPA reaffirmed the scientific, economic, and legal underpinnings of the standards, reversing a rule issued by the previous administration that undermined the legal basis for these vital health protections.

“America is leading the way in innovation, and our work to protect public health is no different. By leveraging proven, emissions-reduction measures available at reasonable costs and encouraging new, advanced control technologies, we can reduce hazardous pollution from coal-fired power plants, protecting our planet and improving public health for all,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today’s proposal will support and strengthen EPA’s Mercury and Air Toxics Standards, which have delivered a 90 percent reduction in mercury emissions from power plants over pre-standard levels, ensuring historic protections for communities across the nation, especially for our children and our vulnerable populations.”

MATS requires significant reductions of mercury, acid gases, and other harmful pollutants from coal and oil-fired electric generating units. After reexamining the previous administration’s required review of MATS, EPA is proposing more stringent emissions limits and additional, cost-reasonable monitoring and control methods to further reduce harmful pollution from these sources, resulting in cleaner air for surrounding communities.

EPA projects that the proposed rule would reduce emissions of mercury and non-mercury metal pollution, such as nickel, arsenic, and lead.  These pollutants are known to cause significant health impacts including fatal heart attacks, cancer and developmental delays in children. The proposal would also result in emissions reductions of fine particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide nationwide.

Based on its latest assessment of available control technologies and techniques for reducing hazardous air pollutant emissions, EPA is proposing to further reduce – by 67 percent – the emissions limit for filterable particulate matter (fPM) for existing coal-fired power plants.  This standard is designed to control emissions of nickel, arsenic, and other non-mercury HAP metals from these plants. The proposal also includes cost and feasibility information on achieving even lower levels of fPM emissions, and EPA is taking comment on whether to finalize a more stringent standard.

In addition, EPA is proposing a 70 percent reduction in the emissions limit for mercury from existing lignite-fired sources, a limit that would ensure these plants achieve the same level of emissions performance as other coal-fired power plants. Mercury exposure at high levels can harm the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, and immune system of people of all ages.

EPA’s proposal also includes improvements and updates to emissions monitoring requirements for coal-fired power plants by requiring continuous emission monitoring systems to comply with the revised fPM emission limit. These continuous monitoring systems are highly cost-effective devices that provide regulators, the public, and facility owners or operators with accurate and real-time emission measurements. This up-to-the-moment, quality-assured data can lead to improved control device and power plant operation, reducing air pollutant emissions and exposure for local communities. EPA is also proposing to revise requirements related to startup provisions to assure better emissions performance during periods of startup.

EPA’s proposal projects net public health benefits over the 10-year period from 2028 to 2037 to be $2.4 billion to $3 billion. This includes $1.2 billion to $1.9 billion in health benefits =, along with projected compliance costs of $230 million to $330 million. EPA estimated health benefits, = compliance costs, and net benefits of the proposed revisions to the MATS rule as directed by Executive Order 12866.

These proposed revisions build on the highly successful and cost-effective protections in the current MATS rule. MATS, combined with technological advancements in the power sector, has driven sharp reductions in harmful pollutants. Industry-reported emissions data, required by MATS, show that 2021 mercury emissions from coal-fired electric generating units are 90 percent lower than pre-MATS levels.

EPA’s proposal is aligned with the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government commitment to environmental justice and Administrator Regan’s commitment to transparency for the power sector as the agency works to protect communities from the impacts of power plant pollution. This proposal provides regulatory certainty that allows states, grid operators, and power companies to make investments and planning decisions, while preserving the industry’s ability to deliver reliable and affordable electricity.

EPA is requesting public comment on all aspects of this proposed rule, including the evaluation of the costs and efficacy of control option assumptions. EPA will accept public comment on the rule for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. EPA also plans to hold a public hearing. Details will be available on the website.

Learn more at Mercury and Air Toxics Standards.

EPA Announces Nearly $106 Million for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Massachusetts

Tue, 04/04/2023 - 19:00

BOSTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $105,912,000 to Massachusetts to fund essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF).  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation's water infrastructure.

"Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Thanks to President Biden's historic infrastructure investments in America, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America's drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration's goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution."

"EPA is very grateful to the Biden Administration and to the Congress for making possible the investments we are now making to upgrade drinking water infrastructure throughout New England, but especially to ensure that historically underserved communities are getting the investments and environmental protection they deserve. This funding will provide benefits for Massachusetts communities for generations to come and represents an investment in our children and grandchildren, making sure they have access to clean and healthy drinking water," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash.  

"I applaud the EPA for unlocking funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, along with annual appropriations passed by Congress, to ensure that individuals, families and neighbors can have drinkable water and effective wastewater services in Massachusetts," said U.S. Senator Edward Markey. "Communities, especially those historically left behind, deserve clean drinking water that protects their health and well-being. I will keep pushing for large, climate-resilient investments in water infrastructure, so that the water we drink is clean, safe, reliable, and accessible for everyone across the Bay State."

"It is critical that our communities across Massachusetts have access to safe drinking water," said U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren. "I fought hard for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and because of it, this new funding will help ensure families can get water free from harmful chemicals."

"Under the leadership of President Biden, House Democrats have secured unprecedented resources to modernize our water infrastructure and improve access to clean, safe drinking water for families in Massachusetts and across America," said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5). "Our number one priority is the health and safety of the American people. That's what our constituents expect and deserve from Washington, and it's exactly what we're delivering."

"Whether it's lead pipes in Flint, a hazardous train derailment in East Palestine, or a chemical spill in Philadelphia, it's clear cities and towns across America need help safeguarding clean drinking water," said Congressman James P. McGovern. "It's past time to shine a spotlight on the water investments neglected communities need and deserve. With extra, historic funding from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this money will finally ensure Americans in every community can confidently turn on the tap for a healthy, safe drink."

"Everyone has a right to safe, clean drinking water. As communities across Massachusetts work to upgrade and modernize their aging infrastructure, the EPA's Clean Water State Revolving Fund will provide a crucial investment for our wastewater facilities, stormwater systems, and pollution treatment centers. These funds will improve water quality and public health in the Commonwealth and prepare us for a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow," said Congressman Seth Moulton.

"Whether it's replacing lead pipes, cleaning up PFAS-contaminated drinking water, or upgrading sewage systems along the Merrimack River, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering for every city and town in the Third District," said Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03). "I'm proud of our work to ensure that every family has access to clean drinking water, and I look forward to seeing this funding put to use to complete critical projects so that our communities and our Commonwealth are an even better place to call home."

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation's water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

The DWSRF allotments to states are based on the results of EPA's 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). The survey, which is required by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act, assesses the nation's public water systems' infrastructure needs every four years and the findings are used to allocate DWSRF grants to states. The drinking water utilities need $625 billion in infrastructure investments over the next 20 years to ensure the nation's public health, security, and economic well-being.

At the direction of Congress, EPA's 7th Drinking Water Assessment, for the first time included survey questions focused on lead service lines and is projecting a national total of 9.2 million lead service lines across the country. This best available national and state-level projections of service line counts will help advance a unique opportunity to employ a separate lead service line allotment formula for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding that is based on need. Almost $3 billion of the funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement, taking a key step toward the Biden-Harris Administration's goal of achieving 100% lead free water systems.

President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden's Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don't require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Background

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments mandated that EPA conduct an assessment of the nation's public water systems' infrastructure needs every four years and use the findings to allocate DWSRF capitalization grants to states.

The DWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investment for more than 25 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America.  Since its inception, states have provided almost $53 billion through DWSRF programs to water systems for approximately 18,000 projects. Each state receives an allocation percentage that is based directly on its proportional share of the total need for all 50 States and Puerto Rico. The percentage made available to any individual state ranges from 1% to almost 11%, with each state guaranteed a minimum of 1% of the total amount available to states. Due to any individual state's share of the total state need, some states will see increases or decreases in the percentage of funding they receive.

EPA Announces $62.2 Million for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Maine

Tue, 04/04/2023 - 19:00

BOSTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $62,283,000 to Maine to fund essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF).  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation's water infrastructure.

"Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Thanks to President Biden's historic infrastructure investments in America, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America's drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration's goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution."

"EPA is very grateful to the Biden Administration and to the Congress for making possible the investments we are now making to upgrade drinking water infrastructure throughout New England, but especially to ensure that historically underserved communities are getting the investments and environmental protection they deserve. This funding will provide benefits for Maine communities for generations to come and represents an investment in our children and grandchildren, making sure they have access to clean and healthy drinking water," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash.  

"Maine families deserve infrastructure that provides clean drinking water and protects them from storms and flooding," said Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden. "Today's announcement is an important step to ensure that Maine communities have the funding to improve wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. After the incredible storm we faced in December and the many challenges we face to remove toxic chemicals from our drinking water, this grant funding will help Maine make long overdue water infrastructure improvements. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has already made a huge difference for people across Maine, and this latest round of direct funding will add to these benefits—keeping Maine communities safe while protecting our local environments."

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation's water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

The DWSRF allotments to states are based on the results of EPA's 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). The survey, which is required by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act, assesses the nation's public water systems' infrastructure needs every four years and the findings are used to allocate DWSRF grants to states. The drinking water utilities need $625 billion in infrastructure investments over the next 20 years to ensure the nation's public health, security, and economic well-being.

At the direction of Congress, EPA's 7th Drinking Water Assessment, for the first time included survey questions focused on lead service lines and is projecting a national total of 9.2 million lead service lines across the country. This best available national and state-level projections of service line counts will help advance a unique opportunity to employ a separate lead service line allotment formula for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding that is based on need. Almost $3 billion of the funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement, taking a key step toward the Biden-Harris Administration's goal of achieving 100% lead free water systems.

President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden's Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don't require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Background

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments mandated that EPA conduct an assessment of the nation's public water systems' infrastructure needs every four years and use the findings to allocate DWSRF capitalization grants to states.

The DWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investment for more than 25 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America.  Since its inception, states have provided almost $53 billion through DWSRF programs to water systems for approximately 18,000 projects. Each state receives an allocation percentage that is based directly on its proportional share of the total need for all 50 States and Puerto Rico. The percentage made available to any individual state ranges from 1% to almost 11%, with each state guaranteed a minimum of 1% of the total amount available to states. Due to any individual state's share of the total state need, some states will see increases or decreases in the percentage of funding they receive.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $6.5 Billion for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades Across the Nation including Tennessee

Tue, 04/04/2023 - 19:00

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 4, 2023) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $146,372,000 to Tennessee for essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF).  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s historic infrastructure investments in America, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”
 

“EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will enable states to make the investments needed to ensure improved drinking water infrastructure,” said EPA Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman. “This funding, made possible by President Biden’s Infrastructure Law, will improve public health in underserved communities across the region by providing the resources to make urgent investments in their outdated drinking water system.”

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

The DWSRF allotments to states are based on the results of EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). The survey, which is required by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act, assesses the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and the findings are used to allocate DWSRF grants to states. The drinking water utilities need $625 billion in infrastructure investments over the next 20 years to ensure the nation’s public health, security, and economic well-being.

At the direction of Congress, EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Assessment, for the first time included survey questions focused on lead service lines and is projecting a national total of 9.2 million lead service lines across the country. This best available national and state-level projections of service line counts will help advance a unique opportunity to employ a separate lead service line allotment formula for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding that is based on need. Almost $3 billion of the funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement, taking a key step toward the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of achieving 100% lead free water systems.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Background

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments mandated that EPA conduct an assessment of the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and use the findings to allocate DWSRF capitalization grants to states.

The DWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investment for more than 25 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America.  Since its inception, states have provided almost $53 billion through DWSRF programs to water systems for approximately 18,000 projects. Each state receives an allocation percentage that is based directly on its proportional share of the total need for all 50 States and Puerto Rico. The percentage made available to any individual state ranges from 1% to almost 11%, with each state guaranteed a minimum of 1% of the total amount available to states. Due to any individual state’s share of the total state need, some states will see increases or decreases in the percentage of funding they receive.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $6.5 Billion for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades Across the Nation including Florida

Tue, 04/04/2023 - 19:00

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (April 4, 2023) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $376,162,000 to Florida for essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF).  Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s historic infrastructure investments in America, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”
“EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund enables states to make the critical investments needed to improve drinking water infrastructure,” said EPA Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman. “This funding, made possible by President Biden’s Infrastructure Law, will ensure safe drinking water and enhance public health protections in underserved communities across the Southeast.”

"The over $376 million coming to Florida through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will make a big difference in our state. We are grateful that the Biden Administration is prioritizing clean drinking water in their infrastructure improvement efforts,” said Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09). In places like East Orlando, St. Cloud, and Poinciana, these investments from the Infrastructure Law are very necessary and will help us protect current and future generations from water contamination.”

"Clean, safe drinking water is critical to all communities, and President Biden’s generational investment in our infrastructure will improve life for millions of Americans and businesses," said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). "Pouring nearly $377 million into Florida's dilapidated water systems ensures healthier communities, a stronger economy for our children and grandchildren, and is yet another example of the Biden Administration putting people over politics for families across the country."

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

The DWSRF allotments to states are based on the results of EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). The survey, which is required by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act, assesses the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and the findings are used to allocate DWSRF grants to states. The drinking water utilities need $625 billion in infrastructure investments over the next 20 years to ensure the nation’s public health, security, and economic well-being.

At the direction of Congress, EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Assessment, for the first time included survey questions focused on lead service lines and is projecting a national total of 9.2 million lead service lines across the country. This best available national and state-level projections of service line counts will help advance a unique opportunity to employ a separate lead service line allotment formula for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding that is based on need. Almost $3 billion of the funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement, taking a key step toward the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of achieving 100% lead free water systems.

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Background

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments mandated that EPA conduct an assessment of the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and use the findings to allocate DWSRF capitalization grants to states.

The DWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investment for more than 25 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America.  Since its inception, states have provided almost $53 billion through DWSRF programs to water systems for approximately 18,000 projects. Each state receives an allocation percentage that is based directly on its proportional share of the total need for all 50 States and Puerto Rico. The percentage made available to any individual state ranges from 1% to almost 11%, with each state guaranteed a minimum of 1% of the total amount available to states. Due to any individual state’s share of the total state need, some states will see increases or decreases in the percentage of funding they receive.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $332 Million for Drinking Water Infrastructure Upgrades in Illinois

Tue, 04/04/2023 - 19:00

CHICAGO (April 4, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $332,243,000 to Illinois for essential drinking water infrastructure upgrades across the state through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). Thanks to a $6 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is increasing the investments available to rebuild the nation’s water infrastructure.
 

“Every community deserves access to safe, clean drinking water,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden’s infrastructure investments, we have an unprecedented opportunity to revitalize America’s drinking water systems, support the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of removing 100% of lead pipes across our country, and protect communities from PFAS pollution.”
 

Administrator Region announced the investment today in Rockford at the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America tour with Sen. Dick Durbin, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Rep. Eric Sorensen, Rockford Mayor Thomas McNamara, and Illinois EPA Director John Kim.

“Environmental injustice has allowed drinking water infrastructure failures to proliferate in communities like Rockford,” said Sen. Dick Durbin. “Thankfully, with the help of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, almost $330 million is being brought home to Illinois to confront a monumental task: to ensure our communities know and trust their water is safe to drink. Rockford will finally be able to implement their plans to improve the lives of their residents and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to deliver more federal funding to communities like them.”

 

“I’m proud to be in Rockford today to help EPA announce this historic SRF funding, which was made possible by my Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA) in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that will help upgrade, improve and repair water infrastructure in Illinois and around the country,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth. “Because of my DWWIA bill, I’m also pleased that a portion of this funding will be available as grants and loan forgiveness to ensure these investments reach the most underserved communities and give all of our water systems this opportunity. Every American—no matter their race, income or zip code—deserves to have confidence that the systems carrying and processing the water they use every day are safe, clean and reliable.”
 

“Everyone in Central and Northwestern Illinois should have access to safe, clean drinking water," said Rep. Eric Sorensen. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is working to make that happen by replacing lead pipes in places like Rockford, Illinois. These investments will help our families live healthier lives and create good-paying, sustainable jobs at the same time.”
 

 “With this historic increase in drinking water SRF funding, we will remain at the forefront of addressing lead and other water infrastructure needs in our community and continue our commitment to providing safe drinking water for all Rockford residents,” said Rockford Mayor Thomas McNamara. 

 

“Illinois has a tremendous need related to lead service line replacements, and the increased funding allotment for Illinois more accurately represents the challenges we face,” said Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director John J. Kim. “This infusion of funding is vital to Illinois being able to take on this formidable yet crucial task and we look forward to our continued work with Illinois communities and our federal partners.”

 

 “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is bringing long overdue resources to our nation’s drinking water infrastructure,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “The funding being announced today will go towards providing safe, reliable drinking water to Illinois residents for generations to come.”
 

What Illinois officials are saying:
 

“I am thrilled that the state of Illinois is set to receive over $230 million to replace toxic lead service lines. With more than one million lead pipes in Illinois, the second highest number in the nation, this funding will be critical to help ensure safe and clean drinking water for all Illinoisans and their families – an effort I have championed for many years,” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky. “Thanks to President Biden’s Infrastructure Law, $15 billion dollars is being allocated nationwide to help remove lead service lines, helping communities across the nation better access clean drinking water. Our children deserve a safe and sustainable environment. We must keep up the fight.”

 

“Every household deserves access to safe drinking water - regardless of their zip code or income,” said Rep. Bill Foster. “I was proud to support the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will provide an additional $6.5 billion to invest in essential drinking water infrastructure across the nation and in Illinois. I’m proud that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is continuing to deliver results for Illinois communities, and I'll keep working to ensure our country has the water resources it deserves for decades to come.”

 

“Every American deserves access to clean and safe drinking water,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “I was proud to secure provisions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to fund drinking water infrastructure upgrades, including the replacement of lead pipes that often contaminate water, and to have since advocated for funding distribution based on state need. I’m so glad to see that this funding will be used to help communities in Illinois and ensure our drinking water is clean.”

 

“Far too many communities across our country do not have reliable access to clean drinking water,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García. “From replacing lead pipes to improving storage, life-saving investments in clean water infrastructure like these are crucial. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a historic piece of environmental legislation, and I’m proud that it is already helping build a more just and sustainable future for our communities.”

 

“Failing water infrastructure continues to threaten the health and safety of communities in Central and Southern Illinois and across our state,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski. “I applaud the EPA’s investment of more than $34 million dollars in Illinois’ wastewater and stormwater systems and I look forward to working with local communities like Cahokia Heights to secure funding that will ensure access to safe drinking water and create good paying jobs in our region.”
 

“Our aging water infrastructure must be met with serious investments to protect public health. That’s why I’m pleased to see new funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped pass, come to our state to help communities improve the quality of their drinking water,” said Rep. Lauren Underwood. “I’m also glad to see EPA has answered our call to change its assessment of lead service line funding to better serve states like Illinois, which has more lead service lines than any other state. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and EPA’s assessment update will protect the public health of Illinois communities for generations to come.”

 

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to strengthening the nation’s water infrastructure, while providing significant resources to address key challenges, including climate change, emerging contaminants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and cybersecurity.

 

These DWSRF allotments to states are based on the results of EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA). The survey, which is required by the 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act, assesses the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and the findings are used to allocate DWSRF grants to states. The drinking water utilities need $625 billion in infrastructure investments over the next 20 years to ensure the nation’s public health, security, and economic well-being.

 

At the direction of Congress, EPA’s 7th Drinking Water Assessment, for the first time included survey questions focused on lead service lines and is projecting a national total of 9.2 million lead service lines across the country. This best available national and state-level projections of service line counts will help advance a unique opportunity to employ a separate lead service line allotment formula for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding that is based on need. Almost $3 billion of the funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement, taking a key step toward the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of achieving 100% lead free water systems.

 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing over $50 billion in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the country between FY 2022 and FY 2026. In its second year of implementation, $6 billion of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will be available to states, Tribes, and territories through the DWSRF. Of that funding, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest $3 billion in lead service line identification and improvement, $800 million to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and $2.2 billion in other critical drinking water system improvements. Additionally, approximately $500 million will also be available through the DWSRF annual appropriations, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

 

EPA is committed to ensuring every community has access to this historic investment and has centralized increasing investment in disadvantaged communities within its implementation. The implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law calls for strong collaboration, and EPA continues to work in partnership with states, Tribes, and territories to ensure that communities see the full benefits of this investment. In addition, EPA is strengthening its water technical assistance programs to support communities in assessing their water needs and apply for their fair share of this historic investment.

 

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is growing the American economy from the bottom up and middle-out – from rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, to creating a manufacturing and innovation boom powered by good-paying jobs that don’t require a four-year degree, to building a clean-energy economy that will combat climate change and make our communities more resilient.

 

More information, including state-by-state allocation of 2023 funding and information on the DWINSA.

 

More information on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

 

Background

The 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) Amendments mandated that EPA conduct an assessment of the nation’s public water systems’ infrastructure needs every four years and use the findings to allocate DWSRF capitalization grants to states.

 

The DWSRFs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investment for more than 25 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America.  Since its inception, states have provided almost $53 billion through DWSRF programs to water systems for approximately 18,000 projects. Each state receives an allocation percentage that is based directly on its proportional share of the total need for all 50 States and Puerto Rico. The percentage made available to any individual state ranges from 1% to almost 11%, with each state guaranteed a minimum of 1% of the total amount available to states. Due to any individual state’s share of the total state need, some states will see increases or decreases in the percentage of funding they receive.