The latest outlook for water infrastructure legislation
Despite the House passing the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, H.R.9497, on Sept. 16, there are still gaps in water infrastructure funding through the end of the year.
The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee approved its companion bill in July. Yet, the bill awaits a full Senate floor vote before final negotiations can begin.
Additionally, key U.S. Environmental Protection Agency water infrastructure authorizations expire on Sept. 30.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee released a draft bill to reauthorize Safe Drinking Water Act programs, although funding for these programs are disjointed with years past.
With lawmakers back in their home districts, the National League of Cities encourages municipal leaders to contact their representatives to advocate for stronger funding caps and robust FY27 appropriations before Congress returns to finalize the legislation.
