Water Infrastructure
Failing septic systems, drinking water quality, sprawl and the
Everglades are all affected by water infrastructure funding. Spent
well, this funding can solve vexing pulic health and environmental
problems. Spent badly, problems can become much worse.
On May 17, the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
(EPW), led by Senator Bob Graham (D-FL), passed S. 1961 - the Water
Infrastructure Financing Act of 2002 by a vote of 13 to 6.
This landmark bill increases dollars available for water
infrastructure projects from the federal government to states such
as ours.
If the final bill stands as passed in the Senate, annual funding
levels will jump from the current $3 billion to $8 billion until
2008.
Depending on strengthening or weakening amendments to this bill
and it's companions in the U.S. House, Florida may have new tools
for water cleanup or face new threats to our water resources.
Please write to Senator Graham. Thank him for his
leadership with S. 1961 and tell him to work for strengthening
language in the final bill that will:
disallow funding to those in perpetual violation of water laws
set aside 10% of the dollars for green infrastructure projects
make sure dollars are spent for current public health and
environmental needs, not to promote sprawl
development
Address your letter to:
Senator Bob Graham
524 Hart Senate Office
Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Thank you!
