New water infrastructure bill funds Army Corps projects nationwide

What does this do?

This bill, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, authorizes new studies and construction projects for the Army Corps of Engineers covering rivers, harbors, dams, levees, and flood protection across dozens of states. It also sets rules for how the Corps works with local governments, updates or cancels outdated projects, and includes a second section funding drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, including lead pipe reduction, small and rural water systems, tribal water programs, and restoration of major water bodies like the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain.

Who does it affect?

It affects communities near rivers, coastlines, harbors, and lakes where the Corps operates, as well as local governments and utilities partnering with the federal government. It also affects people relying on public water systems, especially in small, rural, tribal, or low-income communities.

Why does it matter?

The bill directs federal spending and changes application processes, funding-sharing rules, and reporting requirements for local governments and utilities involved in these projects.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Authorizes federal spending nationwide
• Funding-sharing rules for local partners
• Covers water and wastewater programs