HOUSE PANEL CUTS FUNDING FOR CLEAN WATER PROGRAM

Move Threatens Public Health

WASHINGTON (May 4, 2006) -- The House Interior and Environment Subcommittee today stripped $199 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, a 22 percent reduction from its funding of $886 million last year.

"These cuts will seriously erode the nation's ability to reduce contaminants and pollution. If not restored, the cuts will raise serious questions about the government's ability to provide water to millions of Americans," said Heather Taylor, NRDC's deputy legislative director.

Worse, Taylor said, the cuts come at a time when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Congressional Budget Office have said that America's water systems need major investments in infrastructure to protect the health of all citizens.

"The latest funding levels are dangerous and irresponsible," Taylor said.