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HIGHLIGHTS
- On May 14, the EPA announced it will retain existing national drinking water regulations for PFOA and PFOS, but will revisit and potentially revise rules for PFHxS, PFNA, and GenX. The agency also plans to extend compliance deadlines, create a federal exemption framework, and boost outreach to small and rural water systems.
- On May 6, the Senate Appropriations Committee held a hearing on USDA’s FY26 budget request, where Secretary Brooke Rollins addressed concerns about funding delays, office staffing, and access to local services.
- On May 7, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water reviewed the Department of Energy’s FY26 budget with Secretary Chris Wright, who strongly supported preserving the Lower Snake River dams.
- On May 14-15, the Senate and House Appropriations Subcommittees on Interior and Environment held hearings on EPA’s FY26 budget with Administrator Lee Zeldin. Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) criticized the proposed 88% cut to the State Revolving Funds (SRFs), calling the reduction “unserious,” while Zeldin noted that earmarks have affected SRF funding and called for further discussion. Senators from both parties raised alarm over canceled grants and elimination of grant program. Zeldin defended the budget as the product of deliberate planning and reaffirmed his commitment to cooperative federalism. House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) emphasized key research and tribal water investments, while Ranking Member Chellie Pingree (D-ME) challenged the administration’s stance that states should independently fund environmental compliance.
- On May 7, the Department of the Interior announced the extension of 18 short-term water conservation agreements with tribal, municipal, and agricultural users in Arizona and California. These agreements are expected to add 321,000 acre-feet of water to Lake Mead through 2026.