EPA is changing how it helps communities facing water pollution and infrastructure challenges, repealing a Biden-era policy that the Trump administration described as ineffective and inefficient.
The agency on Wednesday unveiled “Real Water Technical Assistance,” a new blueprint for providing technical assistance to struggling water and wastewater utilities. It will focus on delivering public health benefits and ensuring compliance with federal regulations, as well as prioritize rural and tribal communities.
“RealWaterTA ensures that EPA is stewarding taxpayer dollars responsibly with a laser-focus on water quality improvements and high-impact public health protection,” Jess Kramer, EPA assistant administrator for water, said in a news release.
The move aims to align EPA efforts with Trump administration priorities. In a memorandum Wednesday, Kramer criticized the agency under the Biden administration for allegedly spending water assistance dollars on “‘storytelling’ and ‘reducing climate change impacts.’”
