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WASHINGTON, D.C.-Congressman Allen Boyd (D-North Florida) today supported legislation to improve water quality in North Florida by adequately funding the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, a program that helps state and local governments address critical water infrastructure needs. The Water Quality Financing Act (HR 720) authorizes a total of $14 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund over the next four years.
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund is used to enhance water quality by helping local communities improve drinking water and sewage treatment facilities. Many counties in North Florida, including Leon, Jefferson, Taylor, Jackson, and Bay Counties, have utilized this program in the past.
"Throughout North Florida, there is significant demand for water and wastewater treatment expansion and modernization," said Congressman Boyd. "The Clean Water State Revolving Fund will help to raise the quality of life for many North Florida residents as well as promote greater economic development. This legislation is an example of how federal resources can be applied to our local needs."
The Administration's Fiscal Year 2008 Budget proposes to reduce the Clean Water State Revolving Fund by $396 million from the 2007 level, providing only $688 million in 2008. Under the Administration's budget proposal, Florida would receive $23 million in 2008 for clean water funds, a reduction of $13 million from the 2007 level.
"Protecting water quality is a major responsibility for local communities and often a tough one with the resources they have at their disposal," Boyd stated. "Unfortunately, the Administration's budget does not recognize this burden on our communities or the need for improved wastewater infrastructure. I will work with my colleagues in the House Budget Committee to develop a fiscally responsible budget that supports programs that are helping our communities meet their most pressing needs."
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