Food & Water Watch Applauds Congressional Progressive Caucus’ Infrastructure Package

Washington, D.C.— “Today, progressive leaders in Congress introduced a comprehensive new plan to update and improve our nation’s infrastructure while creating millions of new jobs. Food & Water Watch applauds this initiative and thanks the Congressional Progressive Caucus for stepping up to ensure that our nation’s roads, bridges, schools and water systems are publically funded and controlled and working for all.

“From unaffordable water service in Detroit, Baltimore and other cities, to poisoned water in Flint and East Chicago, it’s clear that our nation is facing a water crisis. Tainted water and rising service bills reflect our federal government’s dwindling support for water infrastructure, which has declined by 82 percent per capita since 1977. According to one recent study, water service may soon be unaffordable for 35 percent of Americans.

“President Trump’s approach to infrastructure will do more harm than good. It would give massive tax breaks to Wall Street and corporations, encouraging the privatization of essential resources. This plan unveiled today by the Congressional Progressive Caucus promotes public control of our shared resources, prioritizing racial and gender equality and environmental justice.

“Repairing and replacing our drinking water and sewer systems in particular is a win-win proposition: Communities can ensure the people universal access to safe, affordable water service while putting millions to work. We’re proud to support this package.”

Contact: Kate Fried, Food & Water Watch, (202) 683-4905, [email protected]