Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Senate last night adopted an amendment co-sponsored by U.S. Sen. Jim Jeffords, I – Vt., to boost funding for water infrastructure programs as part of the 2005 budget resolution.
The Senate adopted the amendment by voice vote to provide $3.2 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and $2 billion for the Safe Drinking Water Act Revolving Fund.
Jeffords joined U.S. Sens. Michael Crapo, R – Id., and Paul Sarbanes, D – Md., in offering the amendment.
Jeffords, the ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee said, "This additional funding will help states and local communities meet water quality standards, improve sewage treatment plants, and restore the health and safety of our nation’s waterways."
The President’s budget provided only $1.7 billion for both State Revolving Funds, equally split, while simultaneously seeking $3.5 billion for water and sewer services in Iraq.
Domestically, the President's request equates to a 37% cut in clean water spending.