Summary
Amends a law to give more financial help to rural, small, and tribal towns for their water treatment and stormwater systems.
What problem does this solve?
Small, rural, and tribal communities often cannot afford to update their water treatment systems. This bill increases the amount of financial aid states can offer these communities to help them build and maintain clean water systems.
Who does this affect?
- Rural communities
- Small towns
- Tribal nations
What does this bill do?
Increases state funding for aid
Allows states to use up to 50% of their federal funding grant for extra financial help to communities, an increase from previous limits.
Requires a minimum level of aid
Mandates that states must use at least 20% of their total federal funding grant for this financial aid, as long as there are enough communities that apply for it.
Sets aside funds for small communities
Requires states to make an additional 10% of their grant money available specifically for rural, small, and tribal water treatment projects.
Expands eligibility for financial aid
Allows a project's eligibility for financial help to be based on the specific neighborhood it serves, rather than the entire town or city.
Defines what is not considered aid
Clarifies that a loan with an interest rate of 0% or higher does not count as the special 'additional' financial help this bill provides.
What is the real world impact?
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Supports underserved communities
Targets rural, small, and tribal areas that often have older water systems and a smaller tax base to fund expensive projects. This provides them with needed financial support to ensure clean water for their residents.
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Promotes environmental protection
Helps communities afford better wastewater and stormwater treatment. This reduces water pollution in rivers, lakes, and streams across the country.
When does this start?
This bill would take effect as soon as it is signed into law.