Wittman, Brownley’s Advancing Water Research and Collaboration Act Passes House
Monday, September 14, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) and Congresswoman Julia Brownley’s (CA-26) Advancing Water Research and Collaboration (AWRC) Act passed the House. This legislation would reauthorize the Water Resources Research Act (WRRA) program through Fiscal Year 2029 and make important changes to address the growing footprint of the AI industry and interstate and regional water problems.
“As vice chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, I am proud to lead this effort to improve the management and sustainability of America’s water resources,” said Rep. Wittman. “The AWRC Act would reauthorize a federal program that supports university-based research and education focused on water resources. By investing in scientific research today, we help ensure future generations have access to safe, reliable water resources while supporting responsible stewardship of our natural environment. I remain committed to advancing practical, science-based solutions that benefit Virginia communities.”
“Reauthorizing the Water Resources Research Act Program is especially critical as prolonged periods of drought and increasingly frequent climate hazards push our water systems to the breaking point,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “With access to clean water at risk and the health, safety, and economic security of our communities also in jeopardy, the time to act is now. The Advancing Water Research and Collaboration Act is critical legislation that invests in the research and innovation needed to bolster our nation’s water infrastructure. Together, we must keep working to find commonsense solutions to our growing water supply challenges and ensure that every community has access to safe, clean, and affordable water for generations to come.”
Background:
Background:
The Water Resources Research Act Program, authorized by section 104 of the Water Resources Research Act of 1984, established a network of Water Resources Research Institutes (WRRIs) in each state that work to address state & regional water challenges. The AWRC Act would reauthorize this network of research institutes, which typically are housed at major research universities and ensure each state is well-equipped to manage its unique water challenges. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) have introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate.
Congressman Wittman spoke on the House Floor earlier today in support of this bill. Watch his remarks here.