Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2023

Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2023

This bill increases funding for water infrastructure, including funding for several programs related to controlling water pollution or protecting drinking water.

Specifically, it establishes a Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Trust Fund. The fund may be used for specified grant programs.

The bill increases the corporate income tax rate to 24.5% to provide revenues for the fund.

In addition, the bill revises requirements concerning the clean water state revolving fund (SRF) and the drinking water SRF, including by prohibiting states from providing financial assistance using amounts from the clean water SRF for projects that will provide substantial direct benefits to new communities other than projects for constructing an advanced decentralized wastewater system.

It also creates or reauthorizes several grant programs related to water infrastructure, such as grants for removing lead from drinking water.

Bill 118 HR 1729, also known as the Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2023, aims to address issues related to water access and affordability in the United States. The bill focuses on four key areas: affordability, transparency, equity, and reliability.

In terms of affordability, the bill seeks to ensure that all Americans have access to clean and affordable water. It includes provisions for low-income assistance programs, rate affordability studies, and funding for infrastructure improvements to reduce costs for consumers.

Transparency is another important aspect of the bill. It requires water utilities to provide clear and easily understandable information to consumers about water rates, fees, and quality. This will help ensure that consumers are informed about the cost and quality of their water service. Equity is also a key focus of the bill. It aims to address disparities in access to clean water, particularly in low-income and minority communities. The bill includes provisions for targeted funding and support for communities that have historically faced challenges in accessing clean and affordable water. Finally, the bill addresses the issue of water reliability. It includes provisions for improving water infrastructure, reducing leaks and water loss, and ensuring that communities have access to reliable and safe water sources. Overall, Bill 118 HR 1729 seeks to improve water access and affordability for all Americans, while also promoting transparency, equity, and reliability in the water sector.