On July 25th the full Senate Appropriations Committee recommended $405 million in FY 2014 for activities under the Sen. Paul Simon Water for the Poor Act, this is the highest level ever since the bill was passed in 2005.
MWA particularly acknowledges Senators Dick Durbin(D-IL), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) for their roles in this decision, as well as the many other senators that emerged as important WASH supporters.
The House Appropriations Committee approved $315 million for WASH, recommending it be restored it to the pre-sequestration appropriated level (same level as FY 2010). The two versions will be considered in a House-Senate conference, date to be determined.
Considering the drive in the House to make cuts, we consider this restoration to be a tremendous victory.
The two version will be considered in the House Senate conference this fall, date to be determined.