Examining Legislation To Strengthen Drinking Water Systems And Protect Ratepayer

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment held a hearing on September 4, 2026, to examine legislation aimed at strengthening drinking water systems and protecting ratepayers, particularly in the context of growing water infrastructure demands associated with data centers. The discussion focused on two draft bills: the Safe Drinking Water Infrastructure Investment Act of 2026, which would reauthorize critical drinking water programs including the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), and the Water Cost Accountability Act, designed to ensure that data centers pay their fair share of water system costs without burdening local ratepayers. Witnesses from the US Chamber of Commerce, EPA, and state agencies testified on the importance of robust federal funding for water infrastructure, the challenges faced by small and rural water systems, the need for technical assistance and cybersecurity measures, and the evolving water use technologies in data centers. Concerns were raised about proposed cuts to the DWSRF funding, the need for transparency and public reporting on data center water use, and the importance of protecting communities from rising water costs. The hearing included discussions on balancing economic growth driven by data centers with environmental and public health protections, emphasizing local decision-making and the role of federal support in maintaining safe, affordable drinking water.