Congressman Derrick Van Orden | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Derrick Van Orden | Official U.S. House headshot
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin's Third District celebrated the inclusion of two community project funding provisions in the FY24 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which was passed by the House today. The bill allocates $2 million for the installation of equipment to filter PFAS from drinking water in Eau Claire, and an additional $2 million for the establishment of a new water system in the Town of Campbell in La Crosse.
In expressing his support for the provisions, Rep. Van Orden emphasized the importance of clean and safe drinking water for Wisconsin families, stating, "Clean and safe drinking water for Wisconsin families should be a non-negotiable. Unfortunately, it has been too long since folks have been able to use the water in their own homes due to dangerously high PFAS levels." He further expressed his pride in securing these provisions, as they mark a significant step towards addressing the state's clean water crisis and ensuring that families have access to the clean water they deserve.
Rep. Van Orden's dedication to clean water efforts is evident through his support of various legislative measures. Notably, he cosponsored the PFAS Alternatives Act, which seeks to allocate $25 million annually from 2024 to 2028 for the development of PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters and provide additional funding for guidance and training. Additionally, he cosponsored the Healthy H2O Act, which aims to offer direct assistance to rural communities, households, and nonprofits to test their drinking water and fund filtration technology. Lastly, he cosponsored the Department of Defense PFAS Discharge Prevention Act, a bill that aims to safeguard military personnel and American families from PFAS contamination originating from Department of Defense facilities.
Earlier this year, Rep. Van Orden held a press conference in the Town of Campbell, where he reiterated his commitment to finding solutions to the PFAS levels present in the town's drinking water. The congressman's dedication to this issue is evident in his continuous efforts to raise awareness and secure funding for clean water initiatives.
With the inclusion of these funding provisions in the FY24 Interior Appropriations Bill, Congressman Van Orden has taken a significant step towards addressing the clean water crisis faced by the residents of Wisconsin's Third District. By securing funding for essential equipment and infrastructure, he is working towards ensuring that Wisconsin families have access to clean and safe drinking water.
Click this link to access more information: https://vanorden.house.gov/media/press-releases/derrick-van-orden-champions-clean-water-funding-wisconsins-third-district-fy24
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