Congresswoman Scholten Secures Key Wins for West Michigan in the Passage of the 2026 Water Resources Development Act

September 16, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, secured key policy victories and critical investments for West Michigan in the House passage of the W ater Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2026. “Investing in water infrastructure means investing in jobs, environmental resilience, and the economic health of our local communities,” said Congresswoman Scholten . “As Vice Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, I know how important it is that we work across the aisle to address the water infrastructure needs our country is facing. I am proud of the work of this Committee in getting this critical legislation passed, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get it across the finish line.” Congresswoman Scholten’s specific wins include: $115 million in new environmental infrastructure authorizations between Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon Counties, as well as the state of Michigan, for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management and surface water resource protection. The expedited completion of the streambank erosion and shoreline protection project in Muskegon Heights. Language to direct the Army Corps to assess the impact of data centers on water resources. The necessary authorization for a watershed-based study for the Muskegon River. Several Great Lakes priorities, including language to adjust wage rates for Soo Locks employees; reauthorize the Great Lakes Commission; provide status updates on the Great Lakes recreational boating study; and expand funding eligibility to control aquatic plants and invasive species. Dredging reforms to require local coordination and safe disposal of contaminated materials. The reauthorization of FEMA’s High Hazard Potential Dam Program, and for language to assess levee risk, after significant flooding in Michigan this year. A video of Congresswoman Scholten leading debate in support of WRDA26 on the House Floor is available here . ###