$40 billion Energy and Water Act passes both the House & Senate, bringing big boost to East Tennessee
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Massive federal spending bills continue to make their way through Congress, and while all of them carry importance, one could have a major impact on East Tennessee’s economy and industry.
The House & senate passed the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act—a comprehensive $40 billion spending measure introduced by East Tennessee Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, who chairs the Energy and Water Development Subcommittee.
The bill provides continued and expanded funding for Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Y-12 National Security Complex, and significantly boosts spending on advanced nuclear research.
“Tennessee was just ranked number one in nuclear in the country.” said Fleischmann, who has been working overtime on the bill following last years government shutdown. “We’re looking at $10 billion of annual federal investment. Our friends in Anderson and Roane county are gonna be thrilled. But the reality is, so many people live in Knoxville but work in Oak Ridge.”
For East Tennessee, the implications are substantial. The legislation secures billions in federal investment that will support thousands of jobs and positions the region as a national hub for nuclear energy innovation.
While the bill’s nuclear components grab headlines, the bill also includes important funding for water management and flood control across the Tennessee Valley.
The legislation provides funding for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to manage flood control systems, dams and water resources throughout the region.
The bill now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk for signature.
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