Congressman John Katko Introduces Legislation To Modernize Water Systems

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. John Katko (R, NY-24) today introduced the Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2021. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation aims to protect access to clean drinking water in Central New York by modernizing local water systems. Rep. Katko introduced the bill alongside U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D, AZ-7). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and James Risch (R-ID).

The Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2021 authorizes $50 million in grant funding through the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) to support investments in the deployment of smart water technology. These investments would help support the efforts of local companies like Xylem Inc. in Auburn to develop technology that modernizes water infrastructure, protects against emerging containments like Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), and promotes sustainable water management.

“Today, I introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill to protect access to clean water in Central New York,” said Rep. Katko. “My bill, the Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2021, will expand on local efforts to develop and deploy smart water technology in Central New York. By making this technology more widespread, we will be taking meaningful steps to improve water quality and bolster the reliability and sustainability of our water systems.”

Since coming to Congress, Rep. Katko has championed preserving access to clean drinking water. Last month, he voted to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This historic bill delivers $65 billion in new funding for federal clean water programs, including expanded support for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), which help modernize water infrastructure in Central New York.