Water Resources Development Act of 2022

The Water Resources Development Act of 2022 authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to manage and improve the nation’s water infrastructure, including ports, inland waterways, and flood control systems. This legislation aims to protect communities from natural disasters by funding coastal storm protection, levee repairs, and ecosystem restoration projects.

For everyday citizens, the bill’s practical impact includes more reliable drinking water and wastewater systems, improved local flood defenses, and more resilient shorelines against rising sea levels. Additionally, it streamlines the process for local governments to partner with the federal government on water projects, specifically prioritizing assistance for economically disadvantaged and Tribal communities. While originally introduced as S. 4136, these provisions were ultimately signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023.