The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a new allocation of $3.6 billion under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to enhance water infrastructure nationwide. This announcement, combined with an earlier $2.6 billion release this month, brings the total investment for Fiscal Year 2025 to $6.2 billion.
These funds will be distributed through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), which are part of a federal-state partnership aimed at financing water infrastructure projects. Minnesota is set to receive a significant portion of this funding, including $45,736,000 in Clean Water General Supplemental funds, $3,948,000 in Emerging Contaminant funds, and $11,557,000 from the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.
This initiative is part of a broader five-year plan that represents a historic $50 billion investment in American water infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law stipulates that most of this funding should benefit disadvantaged communities via grants or non-repayable loans.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of reliable water systems: “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity." He highlighted the collaboration with states and local partners to tackle issues such as lead contamination in drinking water and climate resilience.
Senator Amy Klobuchar noted the critical nature of this federal investment for Minnesota's water systems: “Every family deserves clean and safe water when they turn on the tap.” Senator Tina Smith echoed these sentiments by acknowledging Minnesota's longstanding commitment to water quality standards: “This isn’t just an investment to protect drinking water in Minnesota; it’s an investment in the health and safety of Minnesota families.”
Representative Ilhan Omar pointed out the significance of this funding for environmental justice: “This historic $61 million investment in Minnesota's water infrastructure will help protect our communities."
The EPA also offers assistance through its Water Technical Assistance program to help disadvantaged communities develop plans for infrastructure upgrades and apply for funding. This effort aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative aiming to direct 40% of certain federal investments' benefits toward marginalized communities.
For more information on these investments or details about specific state allocations for 2025, interested parties can visit relevant EPA websites dedicated to both Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.
