AWWA recognizes Infrastructure Week by highlighting need for strong federal investment in water utilities

WASHINGTON, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Infrastructure Week begins this week, the American Water Works Association is elevating the value of U.S. water infrastructure and calling on decision-makers throughout the country to support impactful, efficient federal programs that ensure safe, affordable, and reliable drinking water systems.

Federal programs like the State Revolving Funds (SRFs) and the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) have long been essential to helping utilities modernize aging systems, meet evolving regulatory requirements, and maintain high standards of public health protection. These programs are especially vital as utilities face increasing financial pressures and growing affordability challenges.

"Water infrastructure is the foundation of thriving communities," said AWWA Legislative Affairs Director Nate Norris. "Programs like the SRFs and WIFIA are more than just financing tools, they are lifelines that ensure families, businesses, and future generations have access to safe and dependable water."

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, drinking water systems will need to invest over $625 billion in the next 20 years just to maintain current levels of service. This figure does not include the additional costs of complying with new federal rules for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lead. Without robust federal support, these costs will fall disproportionately on ratepayers, many of whom are already struggling to afford basic water services. The expiration of Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds after FY2026 makes full SRF and WIFIA funding even more critical.

As Congress considers FY2026 funding priorities, AWWA urges lawmakers to:

• Fully fund the Drinking Water and Clean Water SRFs and WIFIA; halt the practice of diverting funds from the SRFs to pay for congressional earmarks.
• Establish a permanent Low-Income Household Water Affordability Program at the Department of Health and Human Services to assist low-income households in maintaining affordable access to water.

Throughout Infrastructure Week, AWWA will share stories from utilities and communities to highlight the real-world impact of federal investment and the urgent need for continued action on its LinkedIn, Instagram, X and Facebook platforms.

To learn more about our legislative and advocacy priorities, visit www.awwa.org.

Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world's most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.

SOURCE American Water Works Association