House of Representatives passes Water Resources Development Act of 2024 with big wins for the Hudson and Mohawk watersheds
July 29, 2024
Jeremy Cherson
Associate Director of Government Affairs
jeremyc@riverkeeper.org
In mid-July, the House of Representatives passed the biannual Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, marking significant wins for our regional watersheds. WRDA is a good example of what we call the “secret Congress,” where significant bipartisan legislation flies under the radar yet has a substantial impact. This secret congress just authorized over $300 million for investments in New York’s water and sewer infrastructure and I don’t know about you, but I’m jumping for joy.
WRDA is not a single piece of legislation, but rather a playlist of hundreds of bills, amendments, policy directives, and authorizations for agencies to spend money. Crafted every two years, WRDA is one of the best-kept secrets in Washington that has vast influence on clean water policy, habitat restoration, and vital funding authorizations for various environmental infrastructure. Riverkeeper has engaged in the WRDA process in the past, and our team is taking our work to a new level in order to drive more funding to our region and fulfill our vision for a clean, vibrant Hudson.
States and local communities get federal funds through a two-step process.
- Authorization: Congress first creates an authorization, which sets up an agency or department to spend funds but doesn't provide the actual money.
- Appropriation: The House and Senate then determine how much money to allocate using subcommittees that review the funding needs of states, federal agencies, and critical infrastructure programs, such as ports, flood mitigation, habitat restoration, and clean water infrastructure. Once both houses pass the appropriations bills, they go to the president for approval.
Even if Congress authorizes a certain amount, like $100 million for the Mohawk River clean water Infrastructure, the appropriations process often results in less than the authorized amount.
Recognizing the need for funding for water infrastructure and habitat restoration in the Hudson River watershed, we worked closely with our representatives to create new authorizations from the Mohawk River to New York Harbor. This is the first step toward bringing new dollars into the region to address chronic shortcomings. Through the Army Corps Environmental Infrastructure Program, the following pots were created in WRDA 2024:
- $100 million for the Mohawk River watershed sponsored by Representatives Tonko, Stefanik, and Williams
- $100 million for Brooklyn sponsored by Representative Velazquez
- $60 million for Manhattan sponsored by Representative Nadler
- $25 million for Newtown Creek sponsored by Representative Velazquez
- $10 million for Ulster County Sponsored by Representative Ryan
- $10 million for Orange County Sponsored by Representative Ryan
- $10 million for Dutchess County sponsored by Representative Ryan
- $2 million for Sleepy Hollow sponsored by Representative Lawler
If appropriated, these new funds can be used to replace aging sewer pipes, shore up drinking water supplies and infrastructure, address invasive species, and projects to reduce flooding. These are critical efforts as New York faces an $80 billion need over 20 years for water infrastructure investment, as well as risks from aquatic invasive species.
However, just because the House has passed these authorizations does not mean we are in the clear. The Senate has already passed its version of WRDA, and there are differences between the two bills that must be negotiated. We are urging Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand to ensure these authorizations survive negotiations and make it to President Biden’s desk for his signature. If that happens, we’ll work with both houses to ensure funds make it into the new pots.
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! Hopefully, you’ve learned something about Congressional authorizations and appropriations. WRDA is a great example of the unseen work that goes on at Riverkeeper. Our efforts behind the scenes over months, years, and decades ensure we are securing results and making a positive, lasting impact on the river and our communities.
Riverkeeper protects and restores the Hudson River, and safeguards drinking water supplies through community partnerships, science, and law. Our core programs improve water quality, restore habitat for an abundance of life, and address the impact of climate change on our waterways. Founded in 1966 as the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association, Riverkeeper became the model for more than 320 Waterkeeper organizations around the world and helped establish globally-recognized standards for waterway and watershed protection. We continue to work toward the goal of a swimmable, fishable, and drinkable Hudson River for all. Learn more, get updates, and support our work by visiting https://www.riverkeeper.org
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