Why it Matters

The Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies is doubling down on in-house lobbying, focusing on PFAS liability and cybersecurity. The nation’s largest water utilities are pushing Congress on critical issues impacting water infrastructure. Their recent $100,000 spending in Q3 2025 reflects an intensified advocacy effort during active congressional debates on these vital matters.

By the Numbers

  • Internal lobbying: AMWA spent $100,000 in Q3 2025 using two in-house lobbyists.
  • Historical context: The organization has spent over $2.48 million on lobbying since 2008 through 72 total filings.
  • The team: Daniel Robert Hartnett brings 17 years of AMWA experience, while Megan Rebecca Seymour recently joined from the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
  • External partnerships: AMWA collaborates with firms like Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville PC and Steptoe LLP for EPA appropriations work.

Broader Context

Water utilities are facing growing pressures from PFAS contamination cleanup costs and cybersecurity threats. Congress is currently considering several water infrastructure bills while appropriators debate FY26 funding levels. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has created momentum for federal water investments that AMWA aims to sustain.

The Agenda

AMWA is focusing on five key areas of lobbying:

  • Cybersecurity: Advocating for H.R. 2344/S. 1118 — Water Information, Security, and Cyber Threat Protection Act and H.R. 2594 — Water Risk and Resilience Organization Establishment Act.
  • PFAS liability: Supporting H.R. 1267 — Water Systems PFAS Liability Protection Act to protect utilities from contamination costs.
  • Infrastructure funding: Promoting H.R. 5566 — Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act and FY26 EPA appropriations.
  • Affordability: Advocating for H.R. 4733 to permanently establish the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program.
  • Tax relief: Backing H.R. 3892/S. 2007 — Financing Lead Out of Water (FLOW) Act for financing lead pipe replacement.

Competitive Landscape

AMWA works alongside various water organizations with aligned priorities. The American Water Works Association, Water Agency Leaders Alliance, and National Association of Water Companies are also lobbying on LIHWAP, cybersecurity, and PFAS issues. This collaboration fosters a united industry front on Capitol Hill.

Between the Lines

Congress is actively engaged on AMWA’s initiatives. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held Water Infrastructure Financing hearings in January 2025. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee examined Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act successes in February.

Members, like Rep. Claudia Tenney and Sen. Michael Bennet, are champions of the FLOW Act, and Rep. Zach Nunn introduced cybersecurity legislation for rural water systems. The appropriations committees are marking up FY26 Interior and Environment bills that fund EPA water programs.

The Bottom Line

AMWA’s strategic lobbying occurs at a crucial time, as bipartisan interest in water infrastructure mounts.

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