Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Increases Funding for Public Water Systems
On November 14, 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law. The legislation increases annual funding from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to NHDES for public water systems by approximately 700% for each of the next five years.
The law establishes the following new or expanded funding programs in New Hampshire:
- Approximately $10M a year for the next five years for a new program to provide 100% grants to small and disadvantaged public water systems to address PFAS contamination.
- Approximately $8M a year for the next five years for a new program to provide grants or loans with 100% principal forgiveness to address emerging contaminants such as PFAS, manganese and cyanotoxins.
- Approximately $18M-$25M (51% loan/49% grant/loan forgiveness) a year increase in funding for the traditional State Revolving Loan Fund to improve drinking water infrastructure.
- Approximately $30M (51% loan/49% grant/loan forgiveness) a year for the next five years for a new program to address lead service lines, including the portions of service lines on private property.
NHDES is currently developing its Intended Use Plan, which will describe how the funds will be used and prioritized. Additionally, USEPA is developing guidance for the states regarding the requirements for managing and distributing the funds. It is anticipated that loan and grant application documents for the new funds will be available beginning in April with application deadlines beginning in June.