Jessica Kramer Nominee Questioned on EPA Water Program Funding Freezes

EPA Nominee Questioned on Water Program Funding

• 💡 Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester questioned Jessica Kramer, nominee for EPA Assistant Administrator, regarding funding freezes for water quality programs.
• 🎯 Kramer acknowledged an initial pause to review funding at the start of the administration but stated that by the time she joined, most funding, including for State Revolving Funds (SRFs) and WHIFIA, was being implemented.
• ⚠️ She noted surprise upon learning of a state not receiving funds for lead replacement service lines and confirmed the Office of Water promptly addressed this, emphasizing that such issues would receive prompt attention.

Water Program Funding Mechanisms

• 💰 Kramer clarified that programs like the SRF and WIFIA are loan programs, not grant programs, allowing communities to access funds and repay them without severe financial strain.
• 🤝 She highlighted the importance of these programs for rural and disadvantaged communities, particularly in Delaware.

Focus on Technical Assistance

• 🚀 If confirmed, Kramer stated a key focus would be providing technical assistance to small and rural communities to help them access available funds.
• 💬 She emphasized the need to ensure these communities have the necessary resources.

Other Committee Matters

• ❓ Senator Blunt Rochester also mentioned follow-up questions for the record regarding water affordability and wastewater infrastructure.
• 🤝 The committee also addressed questions for Mr. Donahghue regarding his partner Trent Morris's role in the Trump administration's personnel office.
• ✅ Mr. Nesvik expressed willingness to work with the committee on the bipartisan Recovering America's Wildlife Act.