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Harris Introduces Bill to Ensure Access to Affordable Clean Water for Working Families

WASHINGTON, D.C. June 6, 2018 – Today, U.S.
Senator Kamala D. Harris introduced the Water Affordability Act of 2018, legislation that would help low-income families across the country pay for rising sewer and water bills.
As municipalities work to comply with The Clean Water Act, the cost of compliance is placing a high burden on low-income families who pay for sewer and water utilities.
The Water Affordability Act would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a pilot program, named the Low Income Sewer and Water Assistance Program (LISWAP), to award grants for public water utility companies to assist low-income households with bill repayment.
Access to affordable clean water is a fundamental right,” said Senator Harris.
“The Water Affordability Act is an important step in addressing this urgent need and we look forward to continuing to work with Senator Harris and our community partners to ensure that all communities across the country have access to safe and affordable drinking water and sanitation services.” “We commend Senator Harris for addressing such a critical issue.
“No one should have to suffer from lead contamination, untreated sewage, or polluted runoff, as these problems have severe impacts on the health, safety, and economies of our communities.
Senator Harris saw the need and is working to address one of our country’s greatest challenges by creating meaningful water infrastructure legislation that provides and promotes clean, affordable water for all while protecting our environment and our communities.” “Every human has a right to safe, clean and affordable water,” said San Francisco Public Utilities Commission General Manager Harlan L. Kelly.
This proposed grant program will bring us one step closer to making that a reality.” “The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) is pleased to support The Water Affordability Act by U.S.
“This bill establishes a grant based pilot project to help those most in need pay their sewer and drinking water bills.

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