The House has passed the fiscal 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, under H.R. 4553, a $57.3 billion package that directs substantial funding toward water infrastructure, particularly benefiting regions like the Central Valley.
Central to the bill are investments aimed at bolstering flood protection, enhancing water storage and improving conveyance systems used by farmers. The bill allocates $14 million to enlarge the Success Lake reservoir on the Tule River, $201 million to the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act and to reauthorize the WIIN Act through 2027, and $20 million to canal subsidence repairs.
Reflecting on the importance of these provisions, Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif., who serves on the House Appropriations Committee, said the spending would prioritize the Central Valley.
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“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, and this bill strengthens our region’s resiliency, secures reliable water supplies, and restores conveyance systems our farmers and families depend on,” said Valadao in a statement.
Republican supporters argue that the infusion of resources would modernize aging infrastructure, mitigate flood risks and tackle maintenance backlogs.
Democrats remain critical of the broader appropriation framework that they argue underfunds clean energy and climate resilience programs. Rep. Betty McCollum, D-Minn., warned that cuts to renewable energy and weatherization initiatives undermine preparedness, especially in low-income and climate-vulnerable communities.
With House approval secured by a narrow 214–213 vote, H.R. 4553 now moves to the Senate.
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