States would award water pollutant grants if Congress approves spending

States would use this money only for grants addressing emerging contaminants, a group of water pollutants, focusing on chemicals called PFAS. These rules cover money provided under this proposal through state water pollution funds. Congress would need to approve spending separately. States could not use this money to repay or guarantee debt whose interest is exempt from federal income tax. Money provided for these grants would remain available until spent.

States would reserve at least 25% of this grant money for specified recipients. The minimum share applies to any money Congress provides for these water pollutant grants. Recipients must qualify for extra financial help under existing rules or qualify for water pollution assistance and own or operate treatment systems serving fewer than 25,000 people. States would select grant recipients using their project-priority rules.

The drinking water provision would specify $1 billion yearly for fiscal years 2027 through 2031. The amount concerns the state drinking water fund program for emerging contaminants, a group of water pollutants. It is unclear whether money would be provided directly or require separate congressional spending approval.