What we don't want is for sub-par contractors... More workers die. Those projects don't last.

In order to maintain robust clean water infrastructure now and in the future, a robust and effective program is critical.

These needs are especially urgent for hundreds of communities trying to fix the problems of combined sewer overflows and sanitary sewer overflows.

In my home state of North Carolina alone, there is a documented need of $11 billion for clean water projects.

Investments in water reuse build communities that are modern, sustainable and stable--ready for families to flourish and businesses to grow.

The Clean Water SRF program has allowed them to maintain their systems while they pursue long-term solutions.

The Clean Water SRF is an example of good public policy that helps keep wastewater costs down.

This was a way to ensure that when we use taxpayer dollars, that those dollars were spent for the highest quality work.

I also ask unanimous consent that the record remain open for 15 days for any additional comments and information submitted by Members or witnesses to be included in the record of today's hearing.

Wastewater infrastructure is incredibly important for my constituents and those of every Member of Congress.

According to the EPA's last 'Clean Water Needs Survey Report to Congress,' the total documented needs for sustainable wastewater infrastructure... are at least $270 billion over the next two decades.

Innovation is key to moving our clean water infrastructure into the 21st century.

According to EPA's last 'Clean Water Needs Survey' report to Congress in 2016, the total documented needs for sustainable wastewater infrastructure... are at least $270 billion over the next two decades.

In my home State of North Carolina alone, there is a documented need of $11 billion for clean water projects.

Are we concerned that maybe we are putting too much money towards grants movement that way that is going to shortchange us long term?

Workers do need protections, not because of the vast majority of contractors, but because there are people that would take advantage of the law.

I think it is important to underscore just what a wide gap exists there, and we must maximize every dollar that we can.

I ask unanimous consent that the record of today's hearing remain open until such time as our witnesses have provided answers to any questions that may be submitted to them in writing.

Even by congressional standards, these investments are expensive and cannot be handled by simply authorizing and appropriating the same or larger amounts of federal funds.

Our clean water infrastructure is something most Americans don't think about, but rely on 24/7.

I am actually very passionate about streamlining Government bureaucracy.

Well, thank you very much. I appreciate our panelists being here today.

The Biden administration has a final rule that will go into effect next month to ease the compliance burden.

wastewater is often viewed as a source of pollution but should be promoted as a resource to provide sustainable nutrients and energy.

So, I agree that we need to reduce the regulatory burden, but in doing that, we should not undermine the protections that Davis-Bacon offers to our taxpayers so that we can get the best value for our taxpayer dollars.