The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) urges quick Senate action to authorize funding needed to adequately maintain America’s clean water infrastructure.

The Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation Safety, Infrastructure Security and Water Quality was scheduled to begin addressing growing clean water infrastructure funding needs at a Sept. 19 hearing.

Earlier this year on a 303-108 vote, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 720, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. This legislation reauthorizes the Clean Water State Revolving Fund at $14 billion.

AEM advocates an increase in federal investment to replace and upgrade aging water infrastructure systems across the United States. Government and private studies have estimated that over the next 20 years, the water and wastewater infrastructure investment gaps will reach between $300 and $500 billion.

Despite these needs, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) was allowed to expire. Reauthorizing the long-expired SRF will help address the nation’s critical water and wastewater needs.

“Water infrastructure needs have been ignored for far too long,” stated Nick Yaksich, AEM vice president of global public policy.

“AEM is pleased the Senate is addressing this critical issue.”

For more information, call 866-AEM-0442 or visit www.aem.org.

Today's top stories

Reconstruction of Frank J. Wood Bridge in Maine Under Way

Buffalo Looks to Improve, Protect Ralph Wilson Park

Webuild Ready to Rebuild Collapsed Baltimore Bridge

Make Eliminating Jobsite Distractions Company Safety Goal

VIDEO: Komatsu Holds Demo Days at Cartersville Customer Center

ABC: Over Half of March State Construction Unemployment Rates Down From a Year Ago

Allen Engineering Hosts 60th Anniversary Celebration

Tracey Road Equipment Plans Major Expansion in Utica