Sinema negotiated the Inflation Reduction Act to ensure it included $4 billion in drought resiliency funding
WASHINGTON – Arizonans applauded Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema’s leadership securing $4 billion in drought resiliency funding through her negotiations on the Inflation Reduction Act. See what they are saying below:
“Thank you to Senator Sinema for leading the effort to secure $4 billion in funding to address this historic drought in Arizona and across the Colorado River basin. The funds are absolutely critical for promoting water conservation, protecting our economies, and preserving our environment,” said Mayor Regina Romero, City of Tucson.
“Drought is an existential threat to western agriculture, especially agriculture that relies on water from the Colorado River. Arizona’s farmers are working non-stop to find ways to avoid the catastrophic consequences of drought on the Colorado River. We applaud Senator Sinema for recognizing the need to bring federal resources to the table to facilitate reductions in water use and voluntary conservation projects. Our state and nation cannot afford a crash on the Colorado River, and we are grateful for Senator Sinema’s leadership and support as we continue to find innovative solutions so we can continue producing the food and fiber on which all of us rely,” said Stefanie Smallhouse, President of the Arizona Farm Bureau.
“Valley Partnership is grateful for Senator Sinema’s leadership in securing significant funding for drought mitigation projects. Our top priority is maintaining Arizona’s precious resources through investments that will enhance efficiency, increase water reuse, and create water supplies for existing and future users. This includes enabling and engaging with Arizona Tribes. Senator Sinema has been a key partner in these efforts and we look forward to working on innovative ways to preserve and maintain our state’s future water supply,” said Cheryl Lombard, President and CEO of Valley Partnership.
“Thank you Senator Sinema for securing $4 billion to help manage drought in Arizona and the West. Investing in projects like water recharge and reuse, voluntary system conservation and ecosystem and habitat restoration has never been more important. We look forward to working with you and all partners to make sure people and nature continue to thrive,” said Dan Stellar, State Director, The Nature Conservancy in Arizona.
Senator Sinema was instrumental in negotiating the historic, transformative Medicare drug negotiation plan included in the Inflation Reduction Act that will reduce out-of-pocket costs for seniors, save taxpayer dollars, and protect innovation to ensure Arizonans and Americans continue to have access to life-saving medications, and new cures and therapeutics.
Senator Sinema also ensured the Inflation Reduction Act included critical resources for drought resiliency for Arizona and the entire American West. She would not support the Inflation Reduction Act without ensuring the legislation included adequate climate resources to secure Arizona’s water and economic future.