Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at encouraging investment in water reuse technologies across the United States.
The proposed legislation, titled the Advancing Water Reuse Act, would create a federal tax incentive for manufacturers and industrial facilities that invest in systems designed to recycle and reuse water.
Water reuse involves capturing and treating wastewater, stormwater, saltwater, or graywater so it can be safely used again for purposes such as industrial operations, irrigation, and groundwater replenishment. Supporters of the bill say the measure is intended to help address growing demands on the nation’s freshwater supply and aging water infrastructure.
“A safe, reliable supply of freshwater is crucial to facilitating economic development while ensuring Americans across the country have access to clean water,” Senator Britt said in a statement. She noted that water reuse technologies are already being developed and utilized in Alabama industries to reduce pressure on freshwater supplies and infrastructure systems.
Senator Luján emphasized the importance of long-term water security, particularly in states facing increasing water demands.
“As demand for freshwater continues to grow, we need smart and forward-looking solutions to protect our vital resources and strengthen long-term water security,” Luján said.
According to the legislation’s sponsors, the bill would establish a 30 percent Investment Tax Credit for qualifying water reuse projects. Eligible projects would include onsite water recycling systems at manufacturing and food processing facilities, replacing freshwater use with recycled municipal water, and expanding municipal recycling systems that provide recycled water for industrial purposes.
The legislation has received support from a range of industry and water organizations, including the WateReuse Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, PepsiCo, Veolia, and Xylem.
Supporters say expanding water reuse infrastructure could help reduce strain on freshwater resources, lower pressure on municipal systems, and support continued industrial and economic growth nationwide.
