The bill would direct the Environmental Protection Agency to create a grant program for local governments, public water systems, and federally recognized tribes. Grants could pay to replace lead service lines, certain galvanized steel or iron lines, and drinking water mains that are not lead free. They could also cover planning, design, service-line inventories, and site restoration. Grant-funded construction work would have to meet federal prevailing-wage rules.
If established and funded, the program could help eligible water providers and local governments pay for water-line replacement and related work. The bill does not guarantee grants to any particular community or explain how residents would apply.
The program would depend on available appropriations. The bill does not specify a funding amount or grant limits.
The bill's findings say grants are needed because some communities cannot take on more loans or manage complex loan applications. They also state that replacing aging water mains along with service lines can support the long-term condition of water systems and help protect public health.
No publicly available information.