The Water Quality Association (WQA) applauded Congressional approval of a Continuing Resolution (CR) that authorizes $140 million in grants to Flint, Michigan to address lead and other contaminants in drinking water. The funds would also be available for the repair and replacement of lead service lines and public water system infrastructure.
“We’re certainly glad to see Congress act on the behalf of Flint residents who have had to deal with such a difficult situation this past year,” said WQA Deputy Executive Director Pauli Undesser. “It is our hope that these efforts will go a long way toward addressing the needs of the affected homes and businesses.”
In addition to the CR, Congress passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. Undesser said that WQA is heartened to see the increased attention being paid to rural and disadvantaged communities through the additional funding provided by this legislation.
“It’s not just lead and it’s not just Flint,” Undesser said. “As long as concerns about drinking water persist, we’re reminding authorities and the general public to take the appropriate steps to safeguard children and residents by getting your water tested and then using an appropriate water treatment device to address the problem. We hope a portion of the funds and grants will support these priorities.”
Water treatment professionals and certified water treatment products can be found on the WQA website. Products displaying WQA’s Gold Seal have been thoroughly tested and meet the requirements of the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) for their contaminant reduction claims.