Tap Water Study Illustrates Funding Need
July 19, 2007
DC Tap Water Study Illustrates Need for Water Funding
Statement of Food & Water Watch Executive Director Wenonah Hauter
The study released today by EWG revealing unacceptable levels of chlorination byproducts in the water of the nation’s capital, draws attention to a nationwide need to protect critical drinking water sources but especially to the need for increased funding for drinking water and wastewater treatment to protect public health.
Communities across America face an annual $20 billion shortfall between money available and the money needed to maintain and upgrade aging pipes and treatment plants. And yet, the primary funding for this critical infrastructure is subject regular cuts by the president and to politically charged debates in Congress every year where water compete with other priorities for limited funds. Our water is a public trust for current and future generations. It is time for Congress to create a trustfund for water, a dedicated funding stream that would provide communities with the financial support they need.
Instead of turning to wasteful and expensive bottled waters, consumers should, indeed, purchase a water filter to protect their families. And, as citizens, they should demand that their federal government provide clean and affordable public drinking water for all.
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