U.S. President Joe Biden today announced the American Jobs Plan, a broad infrastructure plan which includes $111 billion for water-related programs. AWWA released the following statement this afternoon.

“The American Water Works Association appreciates the Biden Administration’s recognition of the need to strongly reinvest in U.S. drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. Our nation’s water systems protect public health, safeguard the environment and allow our economy to prosper. It’s hard to imagine a more important federal investment.

“The American Jobs Plan includes $45 billion to address lead in drinking water in homes and schools. AWWA is committed to working toward a day when lead is no longer in contact with the water we drink. Assistance from federal partners and many others is critical given the scope of the lead service line replacement challenge, which could exceed $60 billion.

“The plan also allocates $56 billion toward a broad array of infrastructure programs, and $10 billion for monitoring and remediation of per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). AWWA looks forward to working with our members and U.S. Congress as this plan moves through the legislative process.”