NACWA participated in an event hosted by the Bipartisan Policy Center, National League of Cities, and National Association of Counties on August 2^nd featuring Karen Dettmer, Managing Director for Infrastructure Implementation with EPA’s Office of Water. This was the fourth event in a series entitled, “Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities: Implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law”, where the group has hosted key executive branch officials to discuss the successes and areas of opportunity for growth in implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

During Tuesday’s event, Dettmer focused on EPA’s efforts to improve water infrastructure and support utilities in delivering clean, safe, and reliable water services. Among the top themes was that this is a unique time to capitalize on new funding to help meet the needs of disadvantaged and environmental justice communities as well as addressing climate change.

The conversation also highlighted the need to ensure access for communities that have not previously leveraged the State Revolving Funds, and steps the Agency is taking to support utilities in understanding their financing options. While it is clear EPA understands that the BIL provides a much-needed infusion of funds, they also acknowledge that continued strong annual funding will be paramount to addressing legacy and emerging clean water issues.

NACWA appreciates our municipal organization colleagues for coordinating these discussions, which also inform efforts the association is taking to address key challenges facing the sector. In recent weeks NACWA has released several resources to aid clean water utilities in framing future policy discussions – including the “Water Infrastructure Funding Parity Report.” This comprehensive document explores the outstanding funding needs for the sector, examines how other infrastructure sectors are funded, and identifies a number of additional programs and mechanisms that could help provide additional dollars.

Please contact Tony Frye, NACWA Director of Legislative Affairs, with any questions or to discuss further.