The 2012 elections meant many things to many people. We saw a progressive president win a second term, taking away what he and his supporters considered a ?mandate? to continue pushing his legislative and regulatory policies in his second term. We saw Democrats pick up seats in both the House and Senate, and although the political dynamic has not changed, the political discourse is heading from bad to worse. Emboldened Democrats, riding the coattails of the president, aren?t likely going to be in a mood for compromise. A new batch of conservative ?tea party? Republicans came into town in January looking for a fight, and it?s becoming clear they?ll get one. The really bad news is that issues that should enjoy bipartisan support, such as water and wastewater infrastructure investment, are threatened to end up a casualty of this hostile political environment.
The good news is that supporters of America?s underground environmental infrastructure are learning to think outside the box. Innovative financing alternatives are being considered and gaining support on and off Capitol Hill. Advancing water infrastructure legislation in the 113th Congress will be no easy sell, but real opportunities exist, and several advocacy groups are jumping in the debate.
Continue Reading
This archived story is available after you provide your email address and accept our Privacy Policy.
