WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives released the HEROES Act, the latest proposed relief package to address the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic challenges resulting from it. The proposal includes $1.5 billion in funding for water ratepayer assistance to help struggling households pay their water and sewer service bills.
The Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions Act also includes $375 billion to help municipalities cover revenue shortfalls resulting from the pandemic, which may help alleviate the strain on some water agencies.
“NACWA applauds the House for proposing legislation that better positions public clean water agencies to continue providing essential services to families and households that rely on them during this challenging time, said NACWA CEO Adam Krantz. “Clean water is critical to controlling COVID-19 and this legislation is a clear sign that Congress recognizes the essential nature of the services that clean water utilities provide.”
NACWA, estimates that clean water agencies will see tens of billions of dollars in revenue losses as a result of the pandemic, particularly as many utilities have issued moratoriums on water shut-offs and restored service to delinquent accounts. The organization is continuing to work with Congress to advance assistance for utilities and ratepayers during this time.
UPDATE as of 5/18: The House passed the HEROES Act on Friday night. The bill is expected to be revoked in the Senate.
