Published in Last Word
ACEC worked with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to refine agency guidance for states in applying new Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) requirements for water projects. The guidance can be accessed here, and applies to projects funded on or after October 1.
The new QBS rules, which are included in the Water Resources Reform & Development Act (WRRDA), direct states to use QBS for wastewater projects funded through the Clean Water Act State Revolving Fund (SRF) program. States have the option of following the federal Brooks Act or using an equivalent state procedure modeled after the federal law.
ACEC worked for many years to apply QBS to the SRF program, which is most often used by small and mid-sized communities for wastewater projects.
WRRDA included additional reforms advocated by the Council to enhance the SRF program, including expanding the list of eligible uses for SRF financing, extending repayment periods, and providing special financial assistance to communities facing major wastewater upgrades.
If you have any questions, contact ACEC Director of Environment & Energy Programs Keith Pemrick at kpemrick@acec.org or 202-682-4354.
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