The U.S. House of Representatives on April 30 passed the U.S. Farm Bill which included key principles of the Healthy Drinking Water Affordability Act, also commonly known as the Healthy H2O Act.
The Healthy H2O Act, which has been supported by NGWA, was reintroduced in the House last year by Representatives David Rouzer (R-North Carolina) and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) after first being introduced in 2023.
The bill provides grants for water testing and treatment technology directly to individuals and nonprofits in rural communities. Systems that improve water quality — whether installed at the faucet or within a building — can provide immediate and ongoing protection from known and emerging water contaminants, including PFAS and other contaminants.
“Passage of the 2026 Farm Bill is a major win for America’s farm families, rural communities, and our nation’s food security, which is a key component of our national security," Rouzer said.
The Farm Bill passed the House by a 224-200 vote. The Senate must now introduce and pass a version so legislation can continue to move forward.
NGWA has supported the Healthy H2O Act since it was introduced and has discussed it with lawmakers at past NGWA Fly-in events in Washington, D.C.
“Too often, rural communities across the country face barriers to accessing clean, safe drinking water,” said NGWA Past President Eric Macias when the bill was introduced. “The Healthy H2O Act is a real step forward, delivering resources to help families test and treat their water. This legislation reflects the kind of commonsense investment that can truly improve lives.”