Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act
Summary
The Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act aims to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. It focuses on providing additional financial assistance to rural, small, and tribal publicly owned treatment works. The bill modifies the allocation and use of funds within the Water Pollution Control Revolving Loan Funds.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase the availability of financial resources for upgrading and maintaining water infrastructure in underserved communities. This could lead to improved water quality and reduced financial burdens on ratepayers in those areas. It also adjusts the criteria for subsidization amounts and community assistance.
Potential Benefits
- Improved water quality in rural, small, and tribal communities.
- Reduced financial strain on ratepayers through subsidized wastewater services.
- Increased funding available for water infrastructure projects.
- Targeted assistance for underserved communities.
- Potential for more efficient use of state revolving funds.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending and debt.
- Possible administrative overhead in managing the additional subsidization.
- Risk of funds being mismanaged or inefficiently allocated.
- The exclusion of loans with interest rates at or above 0% from being considered additional subsidization may limit flexibility.
- The Act may not address all sources of water pollution.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes water pollution that crosses state lines. The bill's focus on financial assistance falls under Congress's spending power (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).