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Congressman John T. Salazar -- Defending Rural Values -- Third District of Colorado
  For immediate release  
  March 9, 2007  
 

Rep. Salazar Votes For Water Quality Financing Bill

 
 

Bill passes House, moves to Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3) today made the following remarks on the House floor in support of H.R. 720, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007.  The bill passed the House by a vote of 303-108. 

H.R. 720 renews the country’s commitment to clean water by authorizing $14 billion in appropriations over the next four years for the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (Clean Water SRF).  This legislation also expands the eligible uses of the Clean Water SRF, providing additional financial flexibility to help communities afford improvements to their wastewater infrastructure.

Rep. Salazar’s comments are below:


“I thank the Gentleman from Minnesota for yielding.

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of HR 720, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007, and urge swift passage of the measure. 

“I would like to recognize Chairman Oberstar and Representative Johnson for their leadership on this important matter.

“Over the past 2 years, I have visited with folks from across the 3rd District of Colorado.

“Water is one issue that greatly affects every constituent in my district.

“My constituents are concerned about their water supply, concerned that the aging infrastructure is threatening their water quality, concerned that their health is at risk.

“Fast growing rural areas are experiencing trouble with infrastructure demands, especially wastewater treatment facilities. 

“With revolving loan money on the decline, small rural communities have been struggling to address major infrastructure needs.

“This issue crosses lines of environment, health and human safety, growth and economic development.

“Many of us view HR 720 as a long overdue measure to ensure the Federal government invests in wastewater infrastructure.

“This legislation will not only ensure that we have an updated wastewater infrastructure, it will also reduce the burden of construction and maintenance costs on local towns and communities.

“Now is the time for us to start investing in the infrastructure that will safeguard our water quality for future generations.

“Again, I want to thank Chairman Oberstar for his exceptional leadership on this important issue.

“I urge my colleagues to support investment in Clean Water Infrastructure and passage of this bill.

“Thank you and I yield back the remainder of my time.”

 

 
 

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