Congressman Taylor Introduces Bill to Bolster Rural Water Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) today introduced the Water Infrastructure Assistance Reauthorization Act, which will reauthorize the Water, Waste Disposal, and Wastewater Facility Grants Program at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through 2031. This reauthorization will help rural communities make critical updates in their water infrastructure and ensure the accessibility and affordability of water across rural America.

“Rural communities like mine in southern Ohio have long been left behind by the federal government, especially when it comes to water infrastructure improvements,” said Congressman Taylor. “Updating water systems can mean an overwhelming cost soaring into the millions for these small communities. My bill will ensure every Buckeye family’s basic needs are met without having a water bill that breaks the bank.”

The USDA program that would be reauthorized by this bill currently provides loans, grants, and technical assistance to improve critical water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure in rural areas with populations of 10,000 or fewer. With most towns in Ohio’s Second Congressional District having under 10,000 residents, this program bridges the gap for rural families with limited resources.

Congressman Taylor serves on the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee. He additionally serves as the Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The full bill text is available here.