Dingell Bill Would Put $500M Toward Water Bill Help

A federal program that helped more than 28,000 Michigan households cover water and sewer costs could receive new funding under legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell.

Dingell, D-Mich., and U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., introduced the Water Access Act on June 15. The bill would provide $500 million for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program, known as LIHWAP.

The bill text says the money would be appropriated to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for fiscal 2027. LIHWAP was created under the American Rescue Plan Act as the first federal program specifically aimed at helping low-income households pay those costs.

Dingell’s office said LIHWAP previously provided $36,278,352 in federal funding to Michigan, serving more than 28,000 households with an average benefit of $448. The office said it did not have a breakdown available by county or congressional district.

“Clean water is a basic human need,” Dingell said in a press release. “Every person should have access to clean, safe, and affordable water to drink, prepare food, bathe, wash clothes, and more.”

Dingell said no one should have to choose between paying for water and other necessities.

For Michigan residents seeking help now, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services lists current programs for low-income residents with bills, arrears or disconnects. MDHHS says households can receive up to $3,000 in bill assistance per fiscal year and up to $9,000 in metered plumbing repairs per address, depending on eligibility and available funding.

Some Washtenaw County residents also may qualify for the Great Lakes Water Authority’s Water Residential Assistance Program, known as WRAP, if they live in a GLWA member partner community. Wayne Metro lists Augusta Township, Pittsfield Township, Superior Township, Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Township among Washtenaw County communities included in WRAP.

Supporters say restoring federal water assistance would help prevent shutoffs and keep essential service in place for families under financial strain.