PFAS Update & Reminder of IFA-SRF Goals
On November 17, 2022, the EPA posted an update on progress made during the first year of implementation of the “PFAS Strategic Roadmap”.
The report indicates that the EPA has made great strides in research and investigation specific to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and emerging contaminants. One part of this progress included the first year of distribution of funds to address emerging contaminants in the water industry through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). BIL funds total more than $50 billion for stormwater, wastewater, and drinking water improvements. These funds were further targeted to assist small or disadvantaged communities.
Several communities in the State have already submitted for and received grants and low-interest loans from the BIL through the Indiana Finance Authority – State Revolving Loan Fund (IFA-SRF). As these funds are a 5-year program, we have 4 additional years for which funding can be applied. Funds appropriated through the IFA-SRF are intended to meet the key goals of the BIL:
- Flexibility to Meet Local Needs
- Investment in Disadvantaged Communities
- Lead Service Line Replacement
- PFAS and Emerging Contaminants
- Resilience and One Water
- Support American Workers and Renew the Water Workforce
- Cultivate Domestic Manufacturing
- Fully Enforce Civil Rights
- Refine State SRFs to Build the Pipeline of Projects
Through EPA’s progress report, we are reminded of the critical role drinking water plays in our lives and the importance that should be given to reinforcing and sustaining our infrastructure as well as continued improvements to water quality to protect our most important assets – our communities! Commonwealth is passionate about pursuing these BIL funds for grants and low-interest loans to protect our communities’ water infrastructure in the above areas. Contact Theresa Criss-Hartwig for more information.
