States lose federal water funds to earmarks

Democrats and Republicans in Congress could divert nearly $1.5 billion from states for local funding.

US water infrastructure ‘unsustainable’ amid rapidly evolving crisis, report warns

The United States is facing an unsustainable demand for water and lacks the security posture to defend the nation’s water systems from emerging threats, according to a new report.

Water conservation model built on the Rio Grande may be a template for rest of US

Sen. Martin Heinrich hopes to add a nationwide groundwater conservation program to the Farm Bill.

Much is at stake in Congress’ upcoming budget negotiations for state and local water agencies

Two analyses suggest governments will be getting far less than what they need. They blame politics and earmarks.

As water reuse expands, proponents battle the ‘yuck’ factor

Treated wastewater could be the answer to communities' looming concerns over water shortages. Despite skepticism and, often, disgust at the idea, experts say reused water is a glass-half-full solution.

Regional partnerships can bring a refreshing solution to aging water infrastructure

When legacy water systems lack adequate data collection and monitoring capabilities, communities face an uphill battle delivering clean, safe water to residents.

As EPA cracks down on ‘forever chemicals,’ cities worry about the price tag

In addition to the billions of dollars it will take to keep PFAS out of drinking water, water utilities could be on the hook for even more if a federal law isn’t changed.

How smart software powers water conservation

COMMENTARY | Communities can optimize water usage, minimize waste and promote sustainable practices.

Feds want to help prevent cyberattacks on the water sector

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking input on guidelines for mitigating the risks of cyberattacks on water and wastewater systems.

Las Vegas Needs to Save Water. It Won’t Find It in Lawns.

Drought-plagued Nevada pledged to do away with 3,900 acres of grass in the Las Vegas area within six years, but a ProPublica analysis found that the state grossly overestimated how much of that grass would likely be removed.

There's a Deal to Conserve the Colorado River, Now Comes the Hard Part

After two decades of an ongoing “mega drought” in the West, there are a variety of water conservation efforts to choose from. But one idea in California sticks out.

North Dakota Governor for President?

What the U.S. Supreme Court rulings mean for states and localities; watching the debt limit drama; and more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.

Supreme Court Scales Back Scope of Clean Water Act

Conservatives on the court say the decision preserves state authority to regulate land and water use. But liberal justices worry the ruling will gut efforts to curb water pollution.

States Differ Over What's a 'Disadvantaged' Community

The definitions states are using to define a disadvantaged community varies widely, and it is leaving many low-income communities out of federal funding for essential water projects.

Texas’ Water Infrastructure Is Broken, Jeopardizing Quality and Supply for a Growing State

Texas has more than 7,000 water systems. A fraction of them self-reported that they lost 30 billion gallons of water due to broken pipes and leaks in 2021.

Congress Used Money Slated for Clean Water as Earmarks

Despite a historic investment in water, states say they need the money diverted in earmarks during last year’s budget negotiations to provide clean water.

States Awarded $6.5B to Help Remove Lead Pipes

After shortchanging the states with the most lead pipes last year, funding was tweaked to get the money to where it was needed most.

A Spill Outside Philadelphia Adds to the Growing List of Chemical Accidents This Year

There have already been 50 chemical spills or fires in the U.S. this year, and it's only March.

States’ Role in Water and Wastewater Spending Secure, Says EPA

An agency official reassured state and federal officials that “states are very much in the driver's seat” in picking which projects to spend funds from the bipartisan infrastructure bill.

The Five Best Movies About State or Local Government

The glitz! The glamour! The government officials! In honor of this weekend’s Oscar Awards, here are our team’s top picks depicting everything from municipal water wars to prominent politicians.

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