Washington, DC – Today, leaders from the House and Senate announced a deal on a major water infrastructure bill that will authorize key restoration initiatives and will send aid to Flint, Mich., and other communities with lead in their drinking water. Both Houses are expected to pass a bill with this language before the end of the week.

Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation, said this about the water resources deal:

“Ensuring access to safe drinking water is an American value that should transcend politics. We are delighted Congress has been able to come together and provide immediate assistance for Flint, Michigan. We thank the tireless residents of Flint and the bipartisan group of Members who have fought to keep this issue front and center.

"We are pleased the final bill authorizes critical restoration efforts in the Great Lakes, the Everglades, the Delaware River, the Los Angeles River, and Lake Tahoe. At the same time, the bill also authorizes some harmful projects, such as the Port Everglades dredging project that will damage the region’s coral reefs.

“We are also deeply concerned that the newly proposed drought language is not a sustainable solution and will harm wildlife. This new language should be improved to include much greater focus on water conservation, water reuse, and wildlife protections, or it should be removed as the final water resources bill moves to the floor.” 
Additional Resources:

News Release: 100+ Diverse Groups Support Flint Funding Now
Audio Recording of 11/28 Press Conference – WAV