Davids’ Request to Save Kansas $41 Million on Water Contracts Passes U.S. Congress
Wyandotte County also receives $35 Million for water and waste infrastructure
Last night, the U.S. Congress passed Representative Sharice Davids’ request in the 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) that will save the State of Kansas more than $41 million. This measure changes how interest is calculated on two of Kansas’ federal water storage contracts, switching from compound interest to simple interest, and marks a significant win for Kansas taxpayers. In the bill, Wyandotte County also received $35 million for water and waste infrastructure. After yesterday’s House vote, the bill heads back to the Senate, then to the President’s desk.
“This is a big win for Kansas taxpayers and our future water security,” said Davids. “It will not only save our state $41 million, money that can be reinvested into our communities, but also helps ensure farmers and ranchers have the resources needed to be successful and grow their businesses. With added investment for Wyandotte County’s water systems, this legislation ensures reliable, affordable water for future generations of Kansans.”
“Representative Davids pushed for changes to water supply contracts in El Dorado in WRDA 2022 and has continued her advocacy into WRDA 2024 to bring additional relief to Kansas taxpayers,” said U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen. “Thanks to Rep. Davids’ leadership, this Water Resources Development Act for 2024 continues bipartisan efforts to invest in the resiliency of communities, creating good-paying jobs and saving money for Kansas taxpayers.”
Davids’ successful language request will change the interest calculation method for Kansas’ water storage contracts at Milford and Perry Lakes from compound to simple interest. This change, which mirrors the successful adjustment for El Dorado Lake in the 2022 WRDA, will save Kansas over $41 million in total interest payments. Simple interest, calculated annually on the starting balance, prevents the rapid debt growth caused by compounding interest.
This update will provide significant financial relief for Kansas, benefiting municipalities, industries, and water supply districts relying on these reservoirs. It also ensures a more affordable and reliable water supply for residents and businesses, addressing the challenges of ongoing drought and extreme weather. Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Water Office previously advocated for Davids to help make this change.
WRDA is an important piece of legislation that is traditionally passed every two years to authorize U.S. Army Corps of Engineers activities for flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration. It makes key investments in Kansas’ water infrastructure.