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The Water Environment Federation (WEF; Alexandria, Va.) joined 90 other organizations in sending a letter to Congress urging the adequate funding of water infrastructure.

The coalition of national, state, and local organizations asked members of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives to include funding for drinking water, wastewater, water reuse, and stormwater infrastructure in any infrastructure package considered.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that water and wastewater infrastructure will require nearly $750 billion worth of investment during the next 20 years to maintain current levels of service. But since 1977, federal investment in water infrastructure has declined.

But investing in water creates jobs and benefits the economy. “Every $1 invested in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure increases long-term [gross domestic product] by $6.35, creates 1.6 new jobs, and provides $23.00 in public health-related benefits,” the letter reads.