Skip to main content
Congresswoman Betty McCollum logo

McCollum Statement on Appropriations Committee Passing FY 2020 Energy and Water Development Funding Bill

May 21, 2019

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) today joined House Appropriations Democrats in voting to approve the FY 2020 Energy and Water Development funding bill. The bill rejects the Trump administration's harmful cuts and instead makes environmentally sound and economically beneficial investments to address climate change, improve infrastructure, and uphold our commitment to strengthening America's national security.

In total, the legislation invests $46.4 billion in Energy and Water Development programs, an increase of $1.8 billion from fiscal year 2019.

The bill also includes provisions important to Minnesotans and the American people:

  • Renewable energy: The bill provides $2.65 billion for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, so that we can continue to develop clean, affordable, and secure energy, and move closer to achieving energy independence.
  • Water infrastructure: The bill funds the Army Corps of Engineers at $7.36 billion for projects and programs – including studies, construction, operation, and maintenance – to rebuild and modernize our water infrastructure while also promoting community and economic development.
  • Energy efficiency: The bill increases funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program so that more low-income Americans can pay less in energy costs through more energy-efficient homes.
  • Climate resilience: The bill includes robust funding to strengthen communities against the more frequent and extreme weather events caused by climate change.
  • Indian Energy Policy and Programs: The bill includes $25 million for the Office of Indian Energy and Policy Programs, which provides technical assistance, education, policy research and analysis, and financial assistance to Native American tribes for energy development and capacity-building.

"This Energy and Water Development funding bill upholds America's commitment to a clean energy future and recognizes the need to invest in combating climate change and adapting to the impacts of a changing climate," Rep. McCollum said. "These investments are critical to addressing our economic, environmental, and energy security challenges today and in the future."

A summary of the bill is here. The text of the bill is here. The bill report is here.

# # #