EPIC supports EPA’s BIL SRF Implementation
EPA released its anticipated guidance on the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to invest in water through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs). The outlined priorities demonstrate a firm commitment to advancing equity by allocating funding to the communities that need it most. We appreciate the EPA’s proactive approach and encourage states to do the same. With the EPA’s guidance in hand, states can now move forward on implementation.
We highlight five key takeaways in this statement:
Equitable allocation of principal forgiveness is essential.
Success hinges on meaningful public engagement.
States must invest more in direct technical assistance.
Rapid progress on lead service line replacement is a moral imperative.
Climate resilience must be enhanced.
Through ensuring the funds reach disadvantaged communities (DACs), meaningful public engagement, technical assistance, and focusing on lead service line replacement and resilient projects, we expect that the BIL implementation will increase the number of disadvantaged communities that benefit from SRF funds. Success will turn on how well EPA can explain not only what states must do to deliver outcomes but also how they can do it, including by sharing best practices. We look forward to EPA’s ongoing collaboration with the states to ensure that the equity and resilience goals of the BIL are fully realized.