Western Caucus Members Score Monumental Victory for Commonsense Water Solutions

Press Release

Today, the House of Representatives passed the conference report for S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN) by a vote of 360 to 61. This legislation aims to advance water infrastructure throughout the country and includes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016.

Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) and caucus members Rep. David G. Valadao (CA-21) and Rep. Tom McClintock (CA-24) issued the following statements in response:

"Today, communities all across the West scored a major victory in the fight for commonsense water solutions. Critical provisions in this important legislation will increase water storage, facilitate outstanding tribal water settlements and advance water delivery for millions of Americans while still ensuring responsible environmental protections," said Chairman Gosar. "I am proud that Western Caucus Members were instrumental in crafting this bill and I am grateful for leadership on both sides of the aisle that helped us reach this rational solution."

"As we head into the winter rainy season, including these temporary provisions in S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act, to strengthen California water infrastructure and increase water deliveries is both dire and extremely judicious," said Rep. Valadao. "These provisions will not solve California's water crisis, but they will provide interim relief, which my constituents desperately need. I am encouraged by today's passage of the bill and look forward to working with the new Republican Administration and my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to reach a complete agreement."

"WRDA is an important step forward in protecting California against devastating future droughts and protecting Lake Tahoe against catastrophic wildfires," added Rep. Tom McClintock.

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