House Passes Water Resources Act with 399-18 Vote, Boosting Infrastructure

Dec 10, 2024, 07:49 PM

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 with overwhelming bipartisan support, with a vote of 399-18. This legislation authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program, aiming to enhance the nation's ports, harbors, inland waterways, and flood protection infrastructure. Over 200 stakeholders have endorsed the bill, which includes provisions for economic development, water resources, and specific projects in regions like Puerto Rico, Wyoming County, and Washington D.C. Key aspects of the bill include improvements in flood control, coastal risk management, and funding for local water and infrastructure projects, such as a study for a secondary drinking water source in D.C. with a 90% federal funding cost-share. Additionally, an updated Harbor and Tributary Study was included to address coastal flooding, storm surges, and environmental concerns.