Bipartisan WRDA of 2026 passes house

The bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026 (WRDA), H.R.9497, passed through the House of Representatives on Sept. 16, by a 415-9 vote.

Since 2014, Congress has enacted a WRDA every two years to authorize flood risk management, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps).

Representatives across the U.S. are in favor of the funding WRDA brings to local infrastructure projects, with 133 proposed new feasibility studies in the 2026 version.

“Being located along the Ohio River and its tributaries, Kentucky’s Second District is no stranger to the importance of safe and reliable water infrastructure,” said Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02). “Today, the House took an important step in securing the next generation of water infrastructure improvements in passing the Water Resources Development Act of 2026.”

“With extreme weather—fueled by climate change—on the rise, our region has not been spared,” said Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01). “Connecticut has become more prone to severe flooding, communities across the state have made it a priority to invest in more resilient infrastructure to protect homes and businesses before disaster hits.”