Soy growers are asking Congress to support inland waterways in the upcoming 2024 Water Resources Development Act.
Lawmakers are in the process of developing the 2024 WRDA, a critical piece of legislation that will shape U.S. waterway policies for the next two years. The House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee recently issued guidance for WRDA 2024 requests, with Congressional offices having until Friday, Jan. 12, to submit input.
ASA is urging Congress to ensure that inland waterways projects funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act) are completed in accordance with Congressional intent. Specifically, ASA is advocating for these projects to be funded entirely through 100% general revenue without relying on Inland Waterway Trust Fund dollars.
ASA state affiliates this week contacted their House delegation staff, asking them to communicate with the House T&I Committee in support of waiving the IWTF cost-share for the seven inland waterways construction and major rehabilitation projects funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Additionally, ASA requests that these projects remain wholly funded at the federal level, not with IWTF funds, in the 2024 WRDA.
Background: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated funds for seven inland waterways construction projects. However, unforeseen cost overruns, attributed to increased supply and transportation costs, have left the appropriated funds insufficient to complete these projects. Without a specific provision in 2024 WRDA to waive the IWTF cost-share obligation for these projects, there is a significant risk of depleting the IWTF, thereby delaying essential capital improvement projects.Why it matters: The strength of America’s farm economy relies on the efficiency of its inland waterways system. Investments in inland waterways infrastructure curbs delays along the system and prevents cargo from being diverted to more costly and less fuel-efficient modes of transport. Improvements to the nation’s ports, inland waterways, locks, dams, flood protection and other water resources infrastructure allow soybean farmers to transport their crop and remain competitive in the global market.
