RE: Water System Restructuring Assessment Rule, Docket ID Number: EPA-HQ-OW- 2022-0678

Bowman, On behalf of the United States Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, we appreciate the opportunity to submit comments on the U. [...] Affordability and Implementation Local governments continue to fund the majority of municipal water investments, yet even with the historic level of federal funding for water infrastructure through the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), a widening infrastructure needs gap continues to exacerbate local water challenges. [...] These include the recently finalized new drinking water regulations for six different types of PFAS chemicals and the forthcoming Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, which will be final by the end of the year. [...] The Agency should, therefore, consider the effects these final regulations will have on the number of noncompliant systems and their potential to impact the rule’s estimated costs. [...] Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Funding and Compliance Timeframe The Agency refers to the funding available through the IIJA as a financial resource for water systems to utilize when implementing restructuring plans.