Richmond, VA — Today, the Virginia legislature voted to pass HJ538, enshrining the human right to water for all in the Commonwealth. The resolution, championed by Delegate Lashrecse Aird in tandem with Food & Water Watch and Virginia Interfaith Power & Light, affirms the right to clean, potable and affordable water for all.

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, water access has become a life-or-death situation for many. At the same time, clean and equitable water supplies have come under threat from storm events and rate hikes across the country. The House voted to pass HJ538 today after the bill got approval from the Senate yesterday, paving the way for commonwealth action on the threats facing public water supply across Virginia.

In response, Food & Water Watch Southern Regional Director Jorge Aguilar issued the following statement:

“Water is a human right. At a time where the right to clean, potable, and affordable water for all is under attack, we applaud the leadership of Delegate Aird and allies across the legislature in taking a stand on water justice. With the passage of HJ538, Virginia must now move swiftly via its legal and legislative tools to ensure equitable access to safe water for all.

Contact: Phoebe Galt – 207-400-1275, [email protected]