ACWA distributed an Outreach Alert that calls on member agencies to email U.S. Congress members and emphasize how future COVID-19 relief bills need to address impacts on water and wastewater systems.
Developing legislation for COVID-19 relief could potentially help water and wastewater systems continue providing essential services in the face of unprecedented challenges. Local governments, in particular special districts and cities, need assistance balancing increased expenses and reduced revenue due to the financial burdens on ratepayers during the COVID-19 pandemic. ACWA is highlighting this need for relief, as well as requesting direct assistance for ratepayers facing financial uncertainty.
ACWA urges Congress to establish a fund and appropriate $100 billion specifically for local governments, in particular special districts and cities. ACWA also continues to urge Congress to expand the eligibility for the Paid Leave Payroll Tax Credit to include local government entities, the subject of an April 13 Outreach Alert.
