Dingell, Tlaib Lead Legislation to Protect Water Access for Families

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) introduced the Water Access Act, legislation that would direct $500 million to the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) to help low-income families pay for their water and wastewater bills, preventing shutoffs, and ensuring access to safe water.

The water assistance program provides critical funding for low-income households with their water and wastewater bills. This program was essential during the pandemic, helping households keep their water on and their families safe. It is the first-ever federal water assistance program to help low-income households pay for their water and wastewater bills.

"Clean water is a basic human need. Every person should have access to clean, safe, and affordable water to drink, prepare food, bathe, wash clothes, and more. This is about human dignity and survival, because without access to clean water, families face higher risks of disease and diminished quality of life," said Congresswoman Dingell. "No one should have to choose between paying for water or other necessities. This legislation acknowledges the reality of families struggling as they try to make ends meet and provides critical support to help them with those basic needs.

"Access to water is a basic human right. Yet in the 12th Congressional District, far too many families are living without running water in their homes due to the rising affordability crisis and inhumane water shutoffs. No family should ever have to go without access to something as fundamental as water. Programs like LIHWAP play a vital role in supporting low-income families by helping them manage past-due bills and reconnection fees. I'm proud to partner with Rep. Dingell to introduce the Water Access Act, a step toward making sure every family has the resources they need to live with dignity," said Congresswoman Tlaib.

Median water rates have risen by approximately 24.2% in the past five years, putting a strain on low-income households. Access to water is a foundational aspect of our society, and when households suffer economic hardship, we must step in and be available to help them maintain their essential water service.

Specifically, this program was created to help income-eligible households pay outstanding water and wastewater bills, providing up to $1,500 in direct payment assistance toward water and wastewater bills for household accounts behind on payments or in disconnect status, or assistance with reconnection fees when services have been disconnected.

View the bill text HERE.