S. 3465: Unincorporated Partnerships for Grant Resources, Assistance, and Drinking Water Enhancements Act of 2025

This bill, formally known as the Unincorporated Partnerships for Grant Resources, Assistance, and Drinking Water Enhancements Act of 2025 (or UPGRADE Act of 2025), proposes several significant changes to existing water assistance programs for small and disadvantaged communities within the framework of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The main objectives of the bill can be broken down as follows:

1. Extension of Technical Assistance

The bill seeks to extend the period during which technical assistance can be provided to small public water systems. Specifically, it changes the deadline for this assistance from 2026 to 2031. This extension aims to continue supporting these systems in maintaining safe drinking water standards and improving infrastructure.

2. Assistance for Small and Disadvantaged Communities

The bill also amends provisions related to assistance for small and disadvantaged communities. Key updates include:

• The definition of eligible communities is expanded to include both underserved and unincorporated communities. This means that states can seek assistance on behalf of these groups, helping ensure they receive necessary resources for their water systems.
• The bill specifies that states, in coordination with county governments, will identify unincorporated communities to ensure they are included in assistance programs.
• Funding provisions are updated to authorize support for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031.

By making these amendments, the bill aims to enhance the resources available for improving drinking water systems and addressing the needs of communities that might have been overlooked in previous legislation. Overall, it is designed to strengthen the support framework for water systems serving small and disadvantaged populations over an expanded timeframe.

Relevant Companies

• None found