Water Sector Coalition Urges Robust Reauthorization of SRFs and Workforce Grant Programs
The American Public Works Association and water sector partners called on Congress to safeguard long-term infrastructure funding as bipartisan water legislation advances. The coalition highlighted the urgent need to maintain strong funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and specialized water workforce development initiatives.
A coalition of prominent water organizations, including the American Public Works Association (APWA), released an advocacy statement urging Congress to ensure robust funding for critical drinking water and wastewater programs. The push comes as lawmakers negotiate provisions within the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 and related House committee infrastructure drafts.
The coalition voiced strong support for the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee's bipartisan proposal to reauthorize the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) at $3.5 billion annually through fiscal year 2030. In contrast, sector advocates expressed concern over proposed reductions within House committee drafts that could restrict capital flows for vital utility projects.
In addition to capital loan programs, the organizations emphasized the necessity of reauthorizing the Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development grant program. Sustained federal backing is considered vital to training and certifying the next generation of utility operators and wastewater technicians as the industry faces widespread retirements.
Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification Resources Updated
The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) has updated its resources for wastewater treatment operator certification. The agency also announced new grant funding opportunities for watershed-based planning.
Source: NDEP
EPA Launches Water Sector Resilience and Emergency Preparedness Training Ahead of SDWA Compliance Deadlines
In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, the EPA initiated nationwide training modules to help drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities satisfy emergency response mandates. The initiative provides utilities with operational tools to meet Safe Drinking Water Act compliance and cybersecurity resilience targets.
Source: US EPA
EPA Launches New Resilience Training for Water Utilities
In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, the EPA initiated a nationwide training program to assist water and wastewater facilities in meeting emergency response mandates. The training provides operators and managers with essential skills for hazard mitigation, cybersecurity, and operational continuity.
Source: Inside Wastewater
Don't stop at the article.
The industry's most useful newsletter, straight from the plant floor.
One email. No fluff. New lessons, equipment breakdowns, and process control notes, delivered when there's something worth reading.