Senators Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Unlock Federal Funding for Water Infrastructure

By Sen. John Curtis

U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) recently introduced the Restoring WIFIA Eligibility Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation aimed at strengthening water quality and storage infrastructure across the Western United States. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Jim Costa (D-CA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA).

“After meeting with several water conservancy districts across Utah over the past few months, one thing is clear: Utah’s rapid population growth is placing significant pressure on our community water resources,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation would make it easier for local governments and utilities to invest in critical water infrastructure projects—helping ensure we can meet the growing needs of our communities.”

“Strengthening Arizona’s water infrastructure is key to the growth and prosperity of our state,” said Senator Kelly. “Our bipartisan bill will cut red tape to give more projects access to federal funding, which will help modernize our water infrastructure and address critical water challenges facing communities in Arizona and the western U.S.”

“Water is the lifeblood of the West, and as climate change intensifies drought and weather extremes, we must invest in reliable, modern water infrastructure,” said Congressman Costa. “Our legislation will provide California and San Joaquin Valley water managers with the tools they need to expand water storage and ensure clean drinking water in our communities.”