America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018
This bill requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, each fiscal year, to submit to Congress a five-year budget and work plan for projects of national significance. Each Corps of Engineers district, each fiscal year, must submit a five-year budget and work plan for projects under its jurisdiction. Projects must be carried out in a sustainable manner that focuses on water resource challenges and opportunities, promotes collaboration, and pursues integrated water resource management.
The bill reauthorizes provisions of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 pertaining to expedited consideration of water resources infrastructure through 2024.
The bill provides for: (1) the establishment of a Corps of Engineers Board of Appeals; and (2) various studies, modifications, and project authorizations and deauthorizations nationwide.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shall establish a voluntary stormwater infrastructure funding task force to develop recommendations to improve the funding and financing of stormwater infrastructure.
The Safe Drinking Water Act is amended to establish a voluntary WaterSense program to identify and promote water-efficient products, buildings, landscapes, facilities, processes, and services.
The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014 is amended to authorize the EPA to provide financial assistance to state infrastructure financing authorities for state loan funds to carry out water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
The EPA shall: (1) promote the use of green infrastructure; (2) carry out a Water Infrastructure Resiliency and Sustainability Program; and (3) appoint at least one employee in each regional office to serve as a liaison to minority, tribal, and low-income communities.